On March 28, 1979, the worst nuclear reactor accident in U.S. history occurred at the Three Mile Island power plant. In this innovative study, Natasha Zaretsky uses the near-meltdown to shed new light on the era's political realignments. Radiation Nation uncovers the surprising bodily and ecological dimensions of post-Vietnam conservatism.
Three Mile Island and the Political Transformation of the 1970s
The book explores the March 28, 1979, nuclear accident at Three Mile Island, examining its profound impact on political realignments in the post-Vietnam era. Natasha Zaretsky reveals how the incident influenced public perceptions of conservatism, highlighting the bodily and ecological implications that emerged from the crisis. Through this innovative study, she connects the dots between environmental concerns and political shifts, offering a fresh perspective on the era's societal dynamics.
The American Family and the Fear of National Decline, 1968-1980
Focusing on the period between 1968 and 1980, the book explores how anxieties regarding family breakdown and national decline intertwined in American political culture. Natasha Zaretsky illustrates how these fears influenced each other, reflecting broader societal concerns and shaping public discourse during a tumultuous era. The analysis reveals the deep connections between personal and collective identities, shedding light on the dynamics of American life during this pivotal time.