"A Page from the Past: Exploring 2 of the Greatest History Books Part II"

1. "The Skies Belong to Us: Love and Terror in the Golden Age of Hijacking" by Brendan I. Koerner is an enthralling exploration of a tumultuous period in aviation history marked by the dramatic rise of plane hijackings. The book dives deep into the era spanning the 1960s and 1970s when hijacking incidents became frequent occurrences on domestic and international flights, reflecting the volatile political and social landscape of the time. Koerner expertly weaves together historical context, vivid narratives, and compelling character studies to present a captivating and nuanced account of this turbulent chapter in aviation history.

The book opens with the broader history of plane hijackings, tracing their origins to protests over the Vietnam War and other political causes. During this period, many hijackers sought to use commandeered planes as leverage to draw attention to their grievances or to secure the release of political prisoners. The motivations for hijacking soon shifted, with criminals targeting flights for monetary gain or to gain notoriety. One of the most infamous incidents during this time was the case of D.B. Cooper, who hijacked a plane in 1971, extorted a ransom, and then parachuted out of the aircraft, disappearing without a trace and leaving his identity a mystery to this day.

As the book progresses, Koerner highlights the increasing complexity of hijacking incidents, showcasing how the motivations of hijackers evolved from political and financial to acts of terror. The author explores how hijackings became a global phenomenon, with incidents occurring around the world and raising significant security concerns. The shift towards terrorism marked a new and dangerous chapter in aviation history, as hijackers sought to instill fear and wreak havoc on a larger scale.

Amid the broader historical narrative, Koerner focuses on one particular incident to anchor his story: the 1972 hijacking of a Western Airlines flight from Los Angeles to Seattle by a young couple, Roger Holder and Cathy Kerkow. This daring duo orchestrated the longest-distance hijacking in American history, taking the plane on a journey that ended in Algiers. Koerner uses their story as a lens through which to examine the motivations, planning, and execution of hijacking incidents during this era. He delves into the backgrounds of Holder and Kerkow, shedding light on their personal histories and the factors that led them to commit such a high-stakes crime.

Koerner's narrative skillfully captures the tension and drama of the hijacking era, while also providing a detailed examination of the broader societal issues that fueled these incidents. He offers readers a window into the minds of hijackers and their hostages, exploring the psychological and emotional toll of these harrowing experiences. The book also addresses the impact of these incidents on aviation security, detailing how airlines and governments responded to the hijacking crisis and implemented measures to prevent future occurrences.

In conclusion, "The Skies Belong to Us: Love and Terror in the Golden Age of Hijacking" is a gripping and meticulously researched account of a pivotal period in aviation history. Koerner's compelling storytelling and insightful analysis provide readers with a deep understanding of the complex motivations behind plane hijackings and the far-reaching consequences of these events. This book is a must-read for history enthusiasts, aviation buffs, and anyone interested in the intersection of politics, crime, and human drama.

2. "Battle Cry of Freedom: The Civil War Era" by James M. McPherson is a monumental work of history that provides a comprehensive examination of one of the most significant periods in American history. McPherson, an acclaimed historian and esteemed scholar of the Civil War, takes on the daunting task of navigating the complexities of the era that led to the war, the conflict itself, and its aftermath. His meticulous research, clear prose, and balanced perspective make this book a cornerstone of Civil War scholarship and an essential read for anyone interested in American history.

The book begins with an exploration of the political, social, and economic factors that set the stage for the Civil War. McPherson delves into the contentious debates over slavery and states' rights, tracing the rising tensions between the North and the South that ultimately culminated in secession and the outbreak of war. He skillfully examines the motivations of key figures on both sides of the conflict, providing readers with a nuanced understanding of the deeply rooted issues that drove the nation to war.

Throughout the narrative, McPherson's deep knowledge of the subject matter is evident as he weaves together a detailed account of the war's major battles, strategies, and turning points. He presents the military campaigns and engagements with vivid descriptions and insightful analysis, offering readers a comprehensive view of the conflict from both Union and Confederate perspectives. His portrayal of iconic figures such as Abraham Lincoln, Robert E. Lee, Ulysses S. Grant, and Jefferson Davis adds depth and dimension to the historical narrative.

In addition to exploring the military aspects of the war, McPherson also delves into the political and social dynamics of the time. He examines the impact of the war on civilians, including the struggles faced by African Americans and women during this tumultuous period. His discussion of the Emancipation Proclamation and its effects on the course of the war and the future of the nation is particularly illuminating.

McPherson's writing is both accessible and engaging, making complex historical events and themes approachable for a wide range of readers. His balanced approach ensures that the perspectives of both the North and the South are represented fairly, while his scholarly rigor and attention to detail provide a comprehensive and authoritative account of the Civil War era.

One of the book's greatest strengths is its ability to connect the Civil War to the broader sweep of American history. McPherson examines the lasting impact of the war on the nation's trajectory, including its influence on Reconstruction, civil rights, and the ongoing struggle for equality. By placing the Civil War within the larger context of American history, McPherson helps readers understand how this pivotal conflict shaped the nation's past, present, and future.

In conclusion, "Battle Cry of Freedom: The Civil War Era" is a masterful work of historical scholarship that offers readers a thorough and compelling account of one of the most transformative periods in American history. McPherson's meticulous research, insightful analysis, and engaging narrative make this book a landmark work on the Civil War and a must-read for history enthusiasts and students alike. The book's receipt of the Pulitzer Prize for nonfiction is a testament to its exceptional quality and enduring importance in the field of historical literature.