The American Liberal Tradition Reconsidered
The Contested Legacy of Louis Hartz

In 1955, Louis Hartz offered perhaps the most famous interpretation of American history of the second half of the twentieth century in his book "The Liberal Tradition in America". This book considers whether Hartz's analysis should be repudiated or updated and whether a study of America as a 'liberal society' is still a rewarding undertaking.

Offering their own respective understandings of the significance of "The Liberal Tradition in America" in the worlds of yesterday and today, they reassess the Hartzian legacy after half a century while also addressing the triumphs, failures, trials, and tribulations of liberalism in America. These eight distinguished scholars offer insights that are often critical of Hartz, representing a plurality of viewpoints that suggest no definitive conclusion as to the status today of his famous book. But although some may judge Hartz's work as misguided, they affirm that his concern for the fate of liberal society is still with us. These stimulating essays will reward all readers who seek a better understanding of both the Hartzian legacy and America's brand of liberalism today. More than just engaging with Hartz, they bring their own views of the American liberal tradition to the fore.