What is amusing the Million about?
Amusing the Million examines the historical context in which Coney Island made its reputation as an amusement park and shows how America’s changing social and economic conditions formed the basis of a new mass culture.
What was the author arguing in Amusing the Million?
The author’s purpose for writing Amusing the Million is primarily to fill the gap in our knowledge about how the development of amusement parks in the early 20th century encapsulated the change in American character and morals during the progressive era.
How does Kasson describe the crowds that flocked to Coney Island?
Kasson describes the publics visit to Coney Island as remarkable. According to Kasson, the urban public went to Coney Island and through their response; it was a nice experience that they loved.
Why is the study of Coney Island important?
Kasson uses the amusement park at Coney Island as a case study for a transformative period in American history when new economic and social conditions were leading to a new “mass culture.” It was this new culture, composed of both upper and lower classes, native-born and immigrants alike, which stood in “growing revolt …
What does Coney Island symbolize?
Coney Island came to symbolize America’s working-class dreams, growing ethnic and racial diversity, love of amusement, and the dreams of love that crossed class lines. Coney Island’s 150 -year history has cried out for a profound assessment of its cultural, social, economic, and artistic legacy.
Why did Dreamland burn down?
During these repairs, at about 1:30 a.m. on May 27, 1911, the light bulbs that illuminated the operations exploded, likely due to an electrical malfunction. In the darkness, a worker kicked over a bucket of hot pitch, and soon Hell Gate was in flames. The fire quickly spread throughout the park.
Where was Steeplechase Park?
Coney Island
Steeplechase Park was a 15-acre (6.1 ha) amusement park in Coney Island, Brooklyn, New York City. Steeplechase Park was created by entrepreneur George C. Tilyou in 1897 and operated until 1964.
What was the significance of the great railroad strike?
The Great Railroad Strike of 1877 was the country’s first major rail strike and witnessed the first general strike in the nation’s history. The strikes and the violence it spawned briefly paralyzed the country’s commerce and led governors in ten states to mobilize 60,000 militia members to reopen rail traffic.
What is the difference between heir and rabbit?
For one, they’re separate species—and hares are bigger, have longer ears, and are less social than bunnies. Hares and rabbits look similar, and some may hop to the conclusion that they’re the same animal. Not so fast.
Is cony a Scrabble word?
CONY is a valid scrabble word.
What is amusing the million by John F Kasson about?
Amusing the Million by John F. Kasson gives the vibrant history of one of America’s most prized and famous amusement parks, Coney Island; Kasson also describes the society and culture during this time of great change.
What is amusing the million by John Steinbeck about?
Amusing the million is a book that not only historians can read but even explorers. In the book, the author examines the historical background of the Coney Island and how it was constructed many decades ago.
Is “amusing the million” a good book to read?
I read “Amusing the Million” as part my of course work for a grad class on the turn of the century aesthetic. I found it to be quite an enjoyable read with plenty of visual sources and the prose to support it. I only wish that the analysis was a little more in depth and the decline of Coney Island was explored more.
Is amusing a good book?
Amusing is a really short book, but the point is made quickly, no need to dawdle. Kasson examines the rise of Coney Island as a cu I didn’t want to write two reviews of Kasson’s works, but this one is hard to neglect. Even though it is now a thirty-plus year old book, it still is a worthwhile, even important read.