My latest column for the Minnesota Reformer is out. In “The history of what is not true” I add an entry to the recent debate over how Americans understand our past. Avoiding the well-worn tropes of the political controversy, I instead focus on my own research experience.
About 100 years ago, powerful men created a narrative about American history that is not true. It was not true then, nor is it true today. And I saw them do it, day by day, in the newspapers of their time.
This piece explores that reality, ultimately concluding:
“There is no need to fear the exploration of our past through fresh eyes, or danger in seeking a more just and loving future.”
You can read the full column at the Reformer.
Since I’m talking about the Reformer, I will take a moment to brag a little. Last week I learned that I won third place in the Minnesota Society of Professional Journalists Page One awards for my columns in the Reformer.
Winning third prize in any contest is a funny thing to brag about. It’s an honor, but an inherently humble one. Nevertheless, I am very proud of the feat if only because my columns were judged in the large circulation category against the state’s biggest newspapers, which include many of Minnesota’s best columnists.
These contests are inherently subjective. It is as likely that I’m the 17th best columnist as I am the 3rd best or the King of Prussia. But to be in the mix is an honor I greatly appreciate. And to work with Patrick Coolican and the staff of the Reformer is an exciting opportunity that only grows more fruitful with time.
Please, consider reading and supporting the work of the Minnesota Reformer.
Great column.
And congratulations on the award.
Great news. Congratulations. This is the line that gets me in this piece ….”
About 100 years ago, powerful men created a narrative about American history that is not true. It was not true then, nor is it true today. And I saw them do it, day by day, in the newspapers of their time.” Particularly,”nor is it true today.” I certainly hope the Center for the American Experiments anti critical race theory tour skips the range. I am feed up with the Strib printing their garbage. Being anti racist means exactly that.
Congratualtions, Aaron. But it comes at no surprise. Your writing is brilliant!
I tout your work all the time to urban denizens I know in an effort to help bridge that maddening gap between rural folk and city folk. I truly tire of hearing slurs like “cidiot” and ‘“bumpkin” tossed around. We can and must do better.