A Disability History of the United States (ReVisioning American History) (Hardcover)

   Even though I have lived with post polio since 1941, and consider myself well educated, this book taught me the position of those considered to be disabled throughout the history of our country. I was appalled to realize just how deep the cancer of prejudice and distrust grows among those who make the rules. This well documented, thoughtful academic saga touched me in ways that I cannot describe. I remember in the 1960's trying to decide which was the most disturbing to family and acquaintances - being female or being on crutches. The answer was a toss-up...professionally it was the female thing while socially it seemed to be the crutch thing. At any rate, I would recommend this book to any literate professional who is truly interested in the development of our social structure - especially when including those who are different from ourselves.

   A Disability History of the United States by Kim E. Nielsen"A Disability History of the United States" is the informative book about the history of the United States through experiences of people with disabilities. It's a story of stigma and pride denied, it's a journey of overcoming special challenges to make oneself at home. Professor of history and author of three books, Kim E. Nielsen takes the reader on an enlightening and often-disregarded history in the United States through the lives of people with disabilities. The book begins prior to European conquest and colonization and ends to the present time. I found the book to be more informational than inspirational but overall educational, I appreciate the author's candor for the need to explore even further and this book will help whet the appetite of such pursuits. This instructive 272-page book is composed is the following eight chapters: 1. The spirit chooses the body it will occupy: Indigenous North America,...Read more