The Hippies - by John Anthony Moretta (Paperback)

About the Book

"Among the most significant subcultures in modern U.S. history, the hippies had a far-reaching impact on American society. The entrenched institutions within the political and cultural establishments that the hippies challenged, or abandoned, mainly prevailed. Yet the nonviolent, egalitarian principles of the movement, underpinned an era of civic protest that brought an end to the Vietnam War"--

Book Synopsis

Among the most significant subcultures in modern U.S. history, the hippies had a far-reaching impact. Their influence essentially defined the 1960s--hippie antifashion, divergent music, dropout politics and ""make love not war"" philosophy extended to virtually every corner of the world and remains influential. The political and cultural institutions that the hippies challenged, or abandoned, mainly prevailed. Yet the nonviolent, egalitarian hippie principles led an era of civic protest that brought an end to the Vietnam War. Their enduring impact was the creation of a 1960s frame of reference among millions of baby boomers, whose attitudes and aspirations continue to reflect the hip ethos of their youth.

Review Quotes

"this balanced consideration of the hippies succeeds in incorporating positive and negative assessments of this slice of the counterculture of the 1960s...fine study. Highly recommended"--Choice; "in this exemplary treatise on the vast reaches and deep roots of a defining movement, Moretta offers a probing and potent work of cultural anthropology that captures the essence of the youthful energy that changed a nation and influenced the world"--Booklist; "impressively informative and thoroughly 'reader friendly' in organization and presentation...very highly recommended"--Midwest Book Review.

About the Author

John Anthony Moretta specializes in 19th and 20th century U.S. history and has published several monographs, textbooks and referenced journal articles. A history professor with Houston Community College for 35 years, he has also taught upper level U.S. history courses for the University of Houston since 1986.