Kristin L. Hoganson (Books)

Kristin L. Hoganson Books

Kristin Hoganson is a professor of history whose scholarship centers on the United States in world context, the cultures of U.S. imperialism, and transnational history. Her work delves into the complex interplay between domestic and foreign policy, exploring how concepts of American identity and manhood are shaped on a global stage. Through meticulous analysis, Hoganson uncovers how ideals and ambitions intertwine with historical events, offering profound insights into the psyche of American expansionism. Her approach provides readers with a fresh understanding of how global interactions have been shaped and, in turn, how they have shaped America itself.

The Heartland

432 pages
16 hours of reading

Upon arriving in Champaign, Illinois, after an impressive academic journey, Kristin L. Hoganson anticipated a sense of isolation in her new home, viewing it as a quintessential representation of the American heartland. However, she was surprised to discover a stark contrast between the region's reputation and its reality. This prompted her to investigate the historical and mythological narratives surrounding the Midwest. As she delved deeper, she uncovered a rich tapestry of connections among people, commerce, and ideas, revealing the heartland as a significant crossroads rather than a mere provincial backdrop. Despite the region's growing global ties, the myth of the rural Midwest as a steadfast heartland persisted, overshadowing more complex stories. Hoganson's exploration highlights the repression of diverse narratives in favor of a singular, symbolic heart. Her work is a thought-provoking piece of historical scholarship that addresses contemporary issues such as identity, community, immigration, trade, security, and global power. It challenges readers to reconsider the term "heartland" and its implications, offering a nuanced understanding of a region often oversimplified in popular discourse.