Introduction

Good Evening Everyone,
My name is James and I recently started my first year in the Phd program in History at Temple University.  This blog is intended to document my responses to course readings and my first steps in to the world of Public History.

Public History may be a new concept to you, as it was for me, but briefly stated it encompasses all history that is done outside the academy.  While it may be tough at times for us "real" historians to swallow, we in no way have a monopoly on using and studying the past.  As I begin my road toward an advanced degree in history I think it is crucial to keep this in mind.

Public Historians typically immerse themselves in the environment around them. Therefore, I am particularly fortunate to be receiving my introduction to Public History in Philadelphia as my academic interests revolve around American cities and their transformation over the second half of the 20th century.  Through engagement with the historical resources of my new intellectual hometown I hope not only to become familiar with Public History, but to gain new perspectives on topics and issues that have long concerned me.

As I said above, this blog is primarily a reading log, but from time to time I hope to post other interesting material that I come across.  Join me as I learn to navigate the thick historical waters of Philadelphia and, with luck, become a better scholar!

Best,
J