LINES OF THE DAY

". . . But the past does not exist independently from the present. Indeed, the past is only past because there is a present, just as I can point to something over there only because I am here. But nothing is inherently over there or here. In that sense, the past has no content. The past -- or more accurately, pastness -- is a position. Thus, in no way can we identify the past as past." p. 15

". . . But we may want to keep in mind that deeds and words are not as distinguishable as often we presume. History does not belong only to its narrators, professional or amateur. While some of us debate what history is or was, others take it into their own hands." p. 153

Silencing the Past: Power and the Production of History (1995) by Michel-Rolph Trouillot

Saturday, April 6, 2013

Robert V. Remini Dies

Robert V. Remini, the great historian of Andrew Jackson and the era upon which he stamped his name and outlook, the embodiment of his America, whose footprint upon the nation remains so huge that presidents and want-to-be presidents continue to faintly reflect Jackson's enormous stance, died on March 28.



From the New York Times obituary:

“He was the kind of historian who never believed that his interpretation was the last word,” Mr. Meacham said. He added, “You cannot write about Jackson without standing on Remini’s shoulders.”

For the entire obituary, which anyone interested in American history will find illuminating, it's here. 

Robert V. Remini, Rest In Peace.  You practiced your calling well, very well.  We are all indebted to you.

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