Read Kent State by Brian VanDeMark eBook Review

Table of Contents

Uncovering the Tragedy at Kent State: A Definitive History

Brian VanDeMark’s Kent State: An American Tragedy is a meticulously researched and gripping account of one of the darkest moments in American history. On May 4, 1970, at Kent State University in Ohio, a clash between Vietnam War protestors and the Ohio National Guard resulted in the deaths of four students and the wounding of nine others. VanDeMark’s comprehensive narrative delves into the causes and lasting consequences of this tragic event, shedding light on the cultural and political divisions that tore the nation apart during the turbulent 1960s.

Summary

Kent State chronicles the events leading up to the fateful day, beginning with the growing rift between the left and right on college campuses across America. As the Vietnam War raged on, many students opposed the conflict, seeing it as unnecessary and unjust. Tensions escalated as poor and working-class youth were drafted and sent to Vietnam, while their wealthier counterparts often avoided service. Some students developed a deep hatred for the military, the police, and everything associated with authority, while others were determined to uphold law and order at any cost.

Against this backdrop, VanDeMark meticulously reconstructs the days surrounding the Kent State shootings. On May 4th, antiwar protesters wearing bell-bottom jeans and long hair hurled taunts and rocks at National Guardsmen sporting gas masks and rifles. At half past noon, violence erupted as guardsmen—many of whom had joined the Guard to escape the draft—opened fire on the students. The author draws on crucial new research and interviews, including the perspective of guardsmen who were present, to provide a comprehensive account of the tragedy.

Main Characters

The Victims: VanDeMark focuses on the thirteen victims of the Kent State shooting, humanizing them and highlighting the devastating impact of the tragedy on their lives and families.
The National Guardsmen: The author delves into the motivations and experiences of the guardsmen, many of whom were young men themselves, caught in the crossfire of a conflict they did not fully understand.
Governor James Rhodes: The Ohio governor at the time, whose actions and rhetoric contributed to the escalation of tensions and the eventual deployment of the National Guard to Kent State.
Special Agent Tom White: The FBI agent who led the investigation into the Kent State shootings, uncovering a web of conspiracy and corruption that extended far beyond the events of that fateful day.

Key Events and Plots

The Buildup to May 4th: VanDeMark explores the growing tensions on college campuses, the anti-war movement, and the increasing militarization of law enforcement in response to student protests.
The Kent State Shootings: The author provides a detailed account of the events of May 4th, 1970, drawing on eyewitness accounts and forensic evidence to piece together the chaotic sequence of events.
The Aftermath: VanDeMark examines the immediate aftermath of the shootings, including the public outcry, the investigation, and the civil and criminal cases that followed.
The Long-Term Impact: The author explores the lasting consequences of the Kent State tragedy, including its impact on the anti-war movement, the Vietnam War, and the relationship between the government and its citizens.

Suspense and Themes

Kent State builds suspense through its meticulous reconstruction of the events leading up to and during the shootings. VanDeMark’s vivid prose and attention to detail create a sense of urgency and tension as readers follow the unfolding events. The author also explores the broader themes of the Vietnam War’s impact on American society, the growing divide between the left and right, and the role of the government in maintaining order in the face of civil unrest.

Conclusion

Kent State: An American Tragedy is a powerful and important work of history that sheds light on one of the darkest chapters in American history. VanDeMark’s comprehensive research and engaging writing style make this book a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the cultural and political upheaval of the 1960s and its lasting impact on the nation. By humanizing the victims and exploring the perspectives of all those involved, the author provides a nuanced and thought-provoking account of the Kent State shootings and their enduring legacy.