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Over the last decade, we've been privileged to publish three of historian Bruce W. Dearstyne's books—four, actually, if you count both editions of his New York history book, The Spirit of New York. Unfailingly, it is always an extreme pleasure to work with Bruce. He knows history, and especially New York State history, like the back of his hand. He's also extremely kind and genuinely grateful for the work we do on our end to make his books a reality. Speaking of Bruce's books, you can find more information on, and order copies, at our website.

The Spirit of New York, Second Edition

The Crucible of Public Policy

Progressive New York

Bruce recently put together this short piece about New York State's upcoming anniversary. while also highlighting related essays he's written elsewhere. Take it away, Bruce.

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Guest post by Bruce W. Dearstyne

One of the things I’m researching these days might be called “the history of history” or “what we historians can learn from our own history.” I’m especially interested in historical commemorations – who organizes them, what research lies behind them, how they present the history of key events and developments, and what impacts they have.

A case in point is the American revolution here in New York. There is no organized statewide effort for the 250^th anniversary yet so far as I know, but the State Museum has published The New York State 250th Commemoration Field Guide to assist local planners. The State did have high-profile commemorations in the 1920’s for the 150^th and in the 1970’s for the 200^th.  

New York Almanack published my essay On Commemorating America's 250th Anniversary on May 5, 2022. My emphases there were on ensuring that New York’s role in the era received appropriate attention, and on how to use the commemoration to broaden public interest in New York history. One of the recommendations there, one I often advance, is more attention to the state's own "birthday," April 20, 1777, the day the first state constitution was completed in Kingston.

Then, on May 8, 2023, New York Almanack published my essay on America and New York's 250th Birthday, which focused on the 150^th, particularly the patriotic themes in the state’s suggestions for local celebrations.

Finally, and earlier this week, New York Almanack published my essay on The 250th Anniversary of the Revolution in New York: Some Bicentennial Lessons on May 7th. That post reproduces much of a 1977 State Bicentennial Commission and State Museum publication, Forces, on the historical themes that shaped New York. I note in my commentary that it would be great to have something similar today, but that would be a tall order, given New York’s historical complexity.

Bruce Dearstyne is a historian specializing in New York state history and the author of several books. He has taught New York State history at the University at Albany, State University of New York, Russell Sage College, and the State University of New York at Potsdam.