Southern California: An Island on the Land

Santa Barbara [Calif]: Peregrine Smith, 1973. First paperback edition. Paperback. Fine fine with light edge-wear. See photos.. Large octavo in multi-color pictorial wraps; xxiv, 387 pages ; 21 cm; index. A desirable, apparently unread copy. Originally published in 1946 as: Southern California Country, An Island on the Land / "Southern California: An Island on the Land is packed with fascinating material on the region and its galaxy of personalities--from Helen Hunt Jackson to Aimee Semple McPherson, from Huntington the financier to Hatfield the rainmaker. Carey McWilliams provides insights into many subjects, ranging from the origins of Hollywood to the flowering of International Style architecture in Los Angeles." ... "Carey McWilliams (1905-1980) was an American author, journalist, and social critic. He is best known for his writings on politics, social issues, and the history of California. McWilliams was born in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, and grew up in Southern California. He attended Occidental College and received a law degree from the University of Southern California. He worked as a lawyer for several years before turning to journalism. McWilliams was the editor of The Nation magazine from 1955 to 1975, and he wrote extensively on politics and social issues throughout his career. He was a prominent voice in the civil rights movement and wrote about issues such as labor rights, immigration, and poverty. McWilliams is perhaps best known for his books on California history and politics, including "Southern California: An Island on the Land" and "California: The Great Exception". These works are notable for their insightful analysis of California's social, economic, and political landscape, and for their use of oral history and personal narrative to explore the experiences of ordinary people. McWilliams was also a champion of civil liberties and free speech. He wrote extensively about the abuses of the McCarthy era and was a strong advocate for the rights of immigrants and minorities. McWilliams's work has had a lasting impact on American journalism and social criticism. He was a powerful voice for justice and equality, and his writings continue to inspire and inform readers today." // California, Southern -- History. California, Southern -- Description and travel. Californie (Sud) -- Histoire. Californie (Sud) -- Descriptions et voyages. Southern California. . McWilliams, Carey, 1905-1980.