logo

60 pages 2 hours read

Howard Zinn

A People's History of the United States

Howard ZinnNonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1980

A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.

Before You Read

Roundup icon

Super Short Summary

A People’s History of the United States by Howard Zinn explores American history from the perspectives of marginalized groups, emphasizing the struggles between the working class and elites since European colonization. It covers key events from Columbus's arrival to the early 21st century, arguing that traditional histories have often suppressed the voices and movements of everyday people. The book addresses themes of systemic oppression, racism, and class struggle.

Reviews & Readership

4.4

263,978 ratings

77%

Loved it

14%

Mixed feelings

10%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

A People’s History of the United States by Howard Zinn offers a compelling and alternative perspective on American history, emphasizing marginalized groups. Praise centers on its engaging narrative and critical viewpoint. Criticisms include perceived bias and factual inaccuracies. Overall, it is hailed for its thought-provoking content but cautioned for potential subjectivity.

Who should read this

Who Should Read A People’s History of the United States?

A reader who would enjoy Howard Zinn's A People’s History of the United States is typically drawn to alternative historical narratives that emphasize marginalized voices. Similar to fans of Eric Foner's Reconstruction or Upton Sinclair's The Jungle, they seek in-depth explorations of social justice, class struggle, and the complexities of American history.

Book Details
Pages

729

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

United States • Various eras

Publication Year

1980

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Continue your reading experience

Subscribe now to unlock the rest of this Study Guide plus our full library, which features expert-written summaries and analyses of 8,000+ additional titles.