California Frontier - A History Podcast

Kevin Starr's Vision: Interview with Jason Sexton, Pt. 2

April 25, 2024 Season 3 Episode 19
Kevin Starr's Vision: Interview with Jason Sexton, Pt. 2
California Frontier - A History Podcast
More Info
California Frontier - A History Podcast
Kevin Starr's Vision: Interview with Jason Sexton, Pt. 2
Apr 25, 2024 Season 3 Episode 19

In Part 2 of my conversation with Dr. Jason Sexton, we delve into Kevin's attempt to understand the "California experience." Kevin Starr tried to chronicle California's history in a nuanced yet idealistic way, which connected him to earlier California historians such as Josiah Royce.

According to Jason, Starr was an open-minded, generous figure who sought to bring people together through his writings that celebrate ordinary Californians. His Catholic faith shaped this vision of California, and his honesty and empathy helped him grapple with darker aspects of the state's history, like the treatment of Native Americans. Along the way, Jason introduces us to Starr's major works, like Endangered Dreams and Embattled Dreams. These books show Starr's literary mastery in capturing California's depth and complexity—the awesome but conflicting stories that make California unique.

Learn more:

Support the Show.

Give a one-time donation

Learn more about the California Frontier Project:

Contact:
damian@californiafrontier.net

California Frontier - A History Podcast +
Become a supporter of the show!
Starting at $3/month
Support
Show Notes

In Part 2 of my conversation with Dr. Jason Sexton, we delve into Kevin's attempt to understand the "California experience." Kevin Starr tried to chronicle California's history in a nuanced yet idealistic way, which connected him to earlier California historians such as Josiah Royce.

According to Jason, Starr was an open-minded, generous figure who sought to bring people together through his writings that celebrate ordinary Californians. His Catholic faith shaped this vision of California, and his honesty and empathy helped him grapple with darker aspects of the state's history, like the treatment of Native Americans. Along the way, Jason introduces us to Starr's major works, like Endangered Dreams and Embattled Dreams. These books show Starr's literary mastery in capturing California's depth and complexity—the awesome but conflicting stories that make California unique.

Learn more:

Support the Show.

Give a one-time donation

Learn more about the California Frontier Project:

Contact:
damian@californiafrontier.net