Peter Novick examines why Americans long ignored the Holocaust, linking it to Cold War dynamics and Jewish identity. He discusses how the Holocaust became central to American life, raising critical questions about its implications for Jewish identity, the perception of suffering, and the disparity in memorialization compared to American slavery.
The 'Objectivity Question' and the American Historical Profession
Focusing on the evolution of historical objectivity, this book explores the aspirations and challenges faced by American historians since the late nineteenth century. Peter Novick delves into unpublished correspondence and published works, providing a nuanced perspective on how historians have defined their roles and the principles guiding their practice. The narrative reveals the interplay between theoretical ideals and practical realities, offering a comprehensive account of the profession's development and the ongoing debate surrounding the writing of history.