| Henry Watterson (1840-1921), editor of the Louisville Courier-Journal from the 1860s through WWI, was one of the most important and widely read newspaper editors in American history. An influential New South supporter of sectional reconciliation and economic development, Watterson was also the nation's premier advocate of free trade and globalization. Watterson's vision of a prosperous and independent South within an expanding American empire was unique among prominent Southerners and Democrats. He helped articulate the bipartisan embrace of globalization that accompanied America's rise to unmatched prosperity and world power.
Daniel S. Margolies restores Watterson to his place at the heart of late nineteenth-century southern and American history by combining biographical narrative with an evaluation of Watterson's unique involvement in the politics of free trade and globalization.
Daniel S. Margolies is associate professor of history at Virginia Wesleyan College.
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| Reviews:
"Margolies develops his thesis convincingly and readably. His use of the Watterson papers at the Library of Congress is masterful, along with a long list of other primary documents. Watterson is lifted from the role of an important editor of his time to one with wide ranging contacts, reach, potential influence, and a generally consistent intellectual position that demanded attention, if not agreement."--Wallace B. Eberhard, University of Georgia (Emeritus), Journalism History
"This able study considers Watterson's public life only and draws largely on a close reading of numerous published editorials. Margolies's strength lies in his patient willingness to work through Watterson's sometimes conflicting, often hazy prescriptions for regional and national problems. The resulting volume contributes admirably to historians' understanding of both U.S. imperialism and the global position of the New South."-- Randal L. Hall, Rice University
"In this meticulously researched and forcefully argued study, Margolies deftly traces the outspoken and mercurial Watterson's long career with special attention to the southern nationalist's positions on American foreign policy. While examining Watterson's activities and commentary, Margolies renders highly instructive insights regarding the history of U.S. journalism, Democratic politics, and turn-of-the-century American imperialism."--Joseph A. Fry, author of Dixie Looks Abroad: The South and U.S. Foreign Relations, 1789-1973
"Margolies attempts a 'full reappraisal' of this eccentric Kentucky editor, both the bitter partisan who loved a good name-calling brawl and, surprisingly, the forward-looking editor who sought to broaden America's understanding of economic self-interest abroad."--Journal of Southern History
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