In 'The Great Wave,' David Hackett Fischer draws readers into the dramatic landscape of human conflict and natural disaster, offering an illuminating exploration of how societies respond to crises. Through vivid historical narratives and compelling examples, Fischer illustrates the power of collective memory and cultural resilience in the face of catastrophe. The book reveals how major events like tsunamis, earthquakes, and wars have shaped civilizations, leaving indelible marks on collective psyches. As Fischer weaves together history, geography, and psychology, readers are left pondering the unpredictable nature of disaster and human ingenuity. Will you uncover the hidden patterns that link our past misfortunes to our present responses?
By David Hackett Fischer
Published: 1999
"The relentless force of history shapes the present, as waves carve the shores of time, reminding us that change is the only constant in our lives."
Fischer has examined price records in many nations, and finds that great waves of rising prices in the 13th-, 16th-, 18th-, and 20th centuries were all marked by price swings of increasing volatility, falling wages, a growing gap between rich and poor, and an increase in violent crime, family disintegration, and cultural despair. 109 graphs & charts. 7 maps.
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“The relentless force of history shapes the present, as waves carve the shores of time, reminding us that change is the only constant in our lives.”
The Great Wave
By David Hackett Fischer
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David Hackett Fischer is an esteemed American historian and author, renowned for his insightful analyses of American history. Born in 1929, he has authored several notable works, including 'Albion's Seed: Four British Folkways in America,' 'Historians' Fallacies: Toward a Logic of Historical Thought,' and 'Washington's Crossing,' which won the Pulitzer Prize for History in 2005. Fischer's writing is characterized by its meticulous research, narrative flair, and a commitment to presenting history through diverse perspectives. His scholarship often explores the intersection of culture and history, making significant contributions to our understanding of American identity.
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