Racism? Sexism? Classism? And all of the other “ism’s” is what makes up America and every other civilization throughout history. It’s just human nature, and we can get away from it.
I know we in America, continue to try to deliver on the ideology of “American Exceptionalism” and a real “melting pot” concept, and in theory all those things sound wonderful, but in reality, we’ve never come even close to it.
In this book, “White Trash”, the author takes a look at essentially what is classism throughout history in the United States. From the landing of the first “immigrants” from Europe, on Plymouth Rock, to the folks who settled in the Appalachian Mountains, down south, and ventured out West in America, there have been many different classes of people who have populated our country.
White Trash uppends assumptions about America supposedly class free society. Poor whites were central to the rise of the Republican Party in the early 19th century, and the Civil War was fought over class issues nearly as much as it was fought over slavery. Reconstruction. Poor white trash against newly freed slaves, which factored in the rise of eugenics.
This was a very interesting look at class issues throughout American history. From the very stereotypical “hillbillies from the hills”, to the also stereotypical “incestual relationships of mountain folk and very poor people”, even to some of the reality shows such as Duck Dynasty and Here Comes Honey Boo-Boo, at times there was a humorous look as well at what makes up America.
The author also took on folks like Donald Trump, Sarah Palin, and many others, as they either have come from “White Trash” roots and beginnings, or they continue to play it out in today’s media, often to their advantage.
This book was surprisingly “deep” and “introspective” and cause one to really think of how we got to this point in current day America.
We are a “great experiment” that is still in its formation, and offers wonderful advantages over every other country in the world simply because of the vast variety and diversity that all of us have to offer.
Enjoy this book for what it’s worth, but take time to think about what you are reading as well.
I enjoyed this book because one I am a history buff, who is also interested in social issues and things that shaped our great country.
Enjoy!
James Donaldson is a Washington State University graduate (’79). After an outstanding basketball career with WSU, he went on to play professional basketball in the NBA with the Seattle Supersonics, San Diego/L.A. Clippers, Dallas Mavericks, New York Knicks, and Utah Jazz. He also played for several teams in the European Leagues in Spain, Italy, and Greece, and he toured with The Harlem Globetrotters to wrap up his career. James was an NBA All-Star in 1988 while playing center for the Dallas Mavericks. In 2006, James was inducted into the Pac-10 Sports Hall of Fame and also the Washington State University Athletic Hall of Fame. In 2010, James was elected as a board member for the NBA Retired Players Association.
James frequently conducts speaking engagements (motivational, inspirational, educational) for organizations, schools, and youth groups.
In 2010, James was the recipient of the NBA Legends of Basketball ABC Award, awarded for outstanding contributions in Athletics–Business–Community.
He believes in being a role model for success and professionalism to the scores of young people to whom he devotes so much of his time. He currently serves on several boards and committees and is a member of many organizations.
James believes in developing relationships that create a “Win-Win” environment for everyone involved, and in being the best he can be!
For more information about James Donaldson or to request he speak at your event, contact him at:
www.StandingAboveTheCrowd.com
JamesD@StandingAboveTheCrowd.com
1-800-745-3161 (voicemail & fax)
James Donaldson is the author of “Standing Above The Crowd” and “Celebrating Your Gift of Life” and founder of the Your Gift of Life Foundation which focuses on mental health awareness and suicide prevention, especially pertaining to our school aged children and men.
If you’re interested in having James come and speak to your group of young adults, business entrepreneurs, aspiring political and community leaders, and athletic teams, please contact him at jamesd@yourgiftoflife.org and or leave a personal message for him at 1-800-745-3161. Keep up with him and read about how he is reaching out and making a difference in the lives of so many around the world at www.yourgiftoflife.org
