David Kennedy on the Great Depression and the New Deal

Crafting Narratives

Crafting historical narratives involves more than just recounting events; it's about weaving stories that resonate with reality and offer plausible insights. David Kennedy emphasizes the historian's role in creating narratives that map onto reality and communicate the complexities of history 1. He reflects on the influence of his mentor, David Potter, who inspired him to explore the enduring character of American society through historical narratives. Kennedy's approach in writing "Freedom from Fear" was to focus on elements that had lasting consequences beyond the 1930s and 1940s, such as the Social Security Act, rather than fleeting events 2.

   

Importance of History

Understanding history is crucial for both societal and individual identity, akin to how memory defines personal identity. David Kennedy argues that a society ignorant of its history is like an individual without memory, lacking a sense of identity and place 3. He notes the growing interest in American history, as evidenced by the increasing number of students taking the Advanced Placement US History exam, which reflects a serious effort to teach history at the high school level 4. Kennedy also acknowledges the challenge of maintaining objectivity in historical narratives, recognizing the influence of personal biases 5.

   

Lessons from the Past

Historical events like the Great Depression offer valuable lessons for current economic and political challenges. David Kennedy highlights the importance of comparing similar points in economic cycles to understand the effectiveness of past and present policies 6. He notes that while the Great Depression was once seen as irrelevant, it has become a reference point for understanding today's economic crises 7. Kennedy also discusses the role of inequality in the Depression, emphasizing the need for international cooperation to address global economic challenges 8.