Alabaster Cities: Urban U.S. Since 1950 (Hardcover) (ISBN-13: 9780815631057)

With keen insight and exhaustive research John Rennie Short narrates the story of urban America from 1950 to the present, revealing a compelling portrait of urban transformation. Short chronicles the steady rise of urbanization, the increasing suburbanization, and the sweeping metropolitanization of the U.S., uncovering the forces behind these shifts and their consequences for American communities.

Drawing on numerous studies, first-hand anecdotes, census figures, and other statistical data, Short's work addresses the globalization of U.S. cities, the increased polarization of urban life in the U.S., the role of civic engagement, and the huge role played by the public sector in shaping the character of cities.

With deft analysis the author weaves together the themes of urban renewal, suburbanization and metropolitan fragmentation, race and ethnicity, and immigration, presenting a fascinating and highly readable account of the U.S. in the second half of the twentieth century.

Author: John Short
ISBN-10: 0815631057
ISBN-13: 9780815631057
Publisher: Syracuse University Press
Language: English
Published: 12/05/2006
Pages: 312
Format: Hardcover
Weight: 1.30lbs
Size: 9.46h x 6.42w x 0.94d

Review Citation(s):
Reference and Research Bk News 05/01/2007 pg. 149