Pioneer S Progress An Autobiography

“This is the story of a long and brilliant career in American education... [Johnson] writes with humor, modesty, and what seems to be total recall, a fascinating report of a useful life.” — Bruce Bliven, The New York Times “Alvin Johnson has written a first-rate life history, but by that fact he has also written a good deal more. For he has told his life in a way that shows how it holds in microcosm all the dominant themes of our American history and society... [Johnson] must have been a bewildering paradox for his more solemn academic colleagues — a Nebraska farmer who knew the dead languages and most of the European living ones, an economist who knew literature and anthropology and the ‘new’ psychology, an original thinker who was at ease in the columns of the New Republic, an irreverent man who refused to follow the latest revolutionary dogmas but was merciless in knocking the sawdust out of the stuffy orthodoxies... [Johnson] can believe in other men because he has a quiet fortress of strength in himself. Lytton Strachey remarked that it is harder to write a good life than to lead one. Alvin Johnson has done both.” — Max Lerner, The American Scholar “This autobiography is remarkable for the long and fruitful span of life which it records, for the rich and varied contents, and for the humor which the author plays upon every chapter... every chapter bears witness to the honesty of the author’s statement: ‘Never in all my life have I given a hoot for personal security.’“ — George M. Stephenson, The American Historical Review “This American success story is refreshingly different from the usual rags-to-riches one. Alvin Johnson is the best kind of man that America produces, and his autobiography, both in the writing and the story that is told, is one of the best books of the year.” — The Providence Journal “It is necessary for any thoughtful American to take Pioneer’s Progress in hand. You can pick it up, lay it down, come back to it at any odd moment, even on the subway, with pleasure and profit. It is as various in content as a good meal.” — Dorothy Canfield Fisher “What you will remember is the Nebraska boy applying his farmbred wisdom and his father’s courage to all the questions that fate tossed his way.” — New York Herald Tribune “Alvin Johnson’s biography ought to be required reading, both here and abroad, for anyone who wants to understand American government, and the American spirit.” — Adolf A. Berle, Jr. “A fine and mellow autobiography by the father of adult education in this country... His book is alive with anecdotes on everything from life on a remote Nebraska farm to pioneering in the field of the social sciences... Education’s man of action, in a self-portrait which is permeated with a homespun charm and humor and invigorated by the character of the man and his impressive influence.” — Kirkus Reviews “This book relates the interesting life story of a great American liberal and intellectual leader... The reader of Pioneer’s Progress is constantly amazed at the versatility of a man who is able to cram so many good works into one lifetime. Yet, his book is written with such simplicity, modesty, and self-deprecating humor that one cannot help but like as well as admire him.” — L. S. Curtis, Journal of Negro History “[A] lively story which the more-or-less-retired president of the New School has written about his activities up to now... a man’s record of his own life... Among the causes which this man helped turn into movements were land reclamation, rescue of scholars from destruction (by Hitler, Mussolini, and the Communists), peace, and racial justice. But adult education is his great consuming passion. Of this the New School for Social Research, whose founding president he was, is living testimony... To Alvin Johnson, all causes — racial justice, peace, better farming and better health, what have you — are one with adult education. One learns by reading, by observing, by arguing, by acting, by interacting with other people... And perhaps this is the important thing about the man; he would not be confined... And it is in the story of the New School that we learn what the man Johnson really is... This man is strictly a public entrepreneur.” — Everett C. Hughes, Commentary Magazine “Despite the sophistication of the higher reaches of learning and academic endeavor that form a large part of Johnson’s story, he never completely leaves the soil, or the West. The Nebraska beginnings so charmingly chronicled in the early part of the book seem tied intimately to later chapters that related his adventures in land reclamation and his theories on sugar beets, Danish farmers, even Montana Indian reservations. All these serve to demonstrate convincingly that the western roots of Alvin Johnson grew deep indeed.” — Carl Ubbelohde, Montana: The Magazine of Western History “All through his long years of active life Alvin Johnson has fought against bigotry and pettiness of spirit. He is always the free spirit who puts reasoned enlightenment and imaginative and creative thinking against academic stuffiness and oppressive intolerance. But he is never satisfied with mere verbal expression; he always seeks to concretize his reactions into living institutions. His autobiography is, therefore, not only a moving and inspiring story of his own spiritual development but also a chronicle of American cultural institutions during the past 50 years.” — Koppel S. Pinson, Jewish Social Studies “One’s first response to Dr. Johnson’s autobiography is of pride: that so useful, so various, and, what one ventures to call so American a life should belong to us... this autobiography, with its spontaneous combination of concepts and concerns, offers most interesting materials for the student of our national development in modern times.” — Louis Filler, The Mississippi Valley Historical Review

Annie Besant (1847-1933) was a politically active Victorian woman who was much criticized in her time for her outspoken views. She was a self-confessed atheist which, unsurprisingly, led to her separation from her clergyman husband. She joined and was a very active member of the theosophist society.

The subject and author of this Life-Sketch of a Pioneer is James Stephens Brown, a notable participant in the discovery of gold at Sutter's Mill in California, a member of the Mormon Battalion, a missionary, and notable writer and speaker. His life has been one of thrilling experiences, more than ordinarily falls to the lot even of a pioneer settler in the West. This book is full of peril and hardship; with startling episodes and thrilling adventures.

Annie Besant, An Autobiography by Annie Besant: Explore the life and experiences of the prominent British socialist, theosophist, and activist Annie Besant through her autobiography. This book offers insights into her remarkable journey and her dedication to social and spiritual causes. Key Aspects of the Book "Annie Besant, An Autobiography": Social Activism: Annie Besant's autobiography highlights her tireless efforts in advocating for workers' rights, women's suffrage, and theosophy. Spiritual Exploration: The book delves into Besant's spiritual journey and her involvement with the Theosophical Society, showcasing her quest for higher understanding. Life Reflections: "Annie Besant, An Autobiography" offers personal reflections on her life, experiences, and the societal changes she witnessed. Annie Besant was a prominent figure in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, known for her activism and spiritual pursuits. Her autobiography provides a valuable account of her multifaceted life.

Discover the remarkable life story of Annie Besant in her own words with "Annie Besant: An Autobiography." Join Besant on a journey through her extraordinary life, from her humble beginnings to her rise as a prominent figure in the social and political landscape of her time. Experience the captivating narrative of Besant's life as she recounts her experiences with honesty, courage, and insight. Through vivid storytelling and poignant reflections, Besant invites readers to explore the triumphs, challenges, and moments of personal transformation that shaped her remarkable journey. But amidst the recounting of her life lies a fundamental question: What lessons can we learn from Besant's experiences, and how can her legacy inspire future generations? Are there timeless truths and principles embedded in her story that continue to resonate with readers today? Delve into the depths of Besant's autobiography as she shares her perspectives on activism, spirituality, and the pursuit of social justice. With each chapter, readers gain valuable insights into Besant's unwavering commitment to her beliefs and her relentless dedication to creating a better world. Are you ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery and inspiration with "Annie Besant: An Autobiography"? Prepare to be moved by Besant's indomitable spirit and her unwavering pursuit of truth and justice. Engage with Besant's autobiography as you immerse yourself in her remarkable life story. With each page, you'll gain new perspectives on activism, spirituality, and the power of individual agency to effect change. Join the exploration of Annie Besant's life and legacy. Let her story ignite your passion for justice and social reform! Don't miss your chance to experience the life story of a true trailblazer. Purchase your copy of "Annie Besant: An Autobiography" now and discover the enduring legacy of one of history's most inspiring figures. ```

This book is a vivid reminder of the early days of library development in Ontario. The beautiful buildings which still grace Ontario towns and villages, as illustrated, are a part of our provincial heritage. By the turn of the century, a public library was perceived as an important element in the civic fabric of almost every Ontario community. However, the introduction of the Carnegie grants for library buildings gave impetus to the Ontario government programme for library development, and provided a focus for increased support of library services. Rivalry among neighbouring communities to secure a Carngie library heightened this awareness, as did the publicity – in some instances even controversy – which surrounded each step of the grant seeking, site selection and plan approval process. As well, the hitherto unexplored story of Carnegie grant process in each community has been examined, and the role of one man, James Bertram, secretary to Andrew Carnegie, is revealed in absorbing detail. Library plans and design elements are also discussed, and the influence of a few architects on the building designs is revealed; the fascinating involvement of Frank Lloyd Wright in the Pembroke Carnegie library building is one such example.

Drawing on letters, interviews, speeches, and reminiscences, looks at the life and career of the American novelist.