Books From the 1940s That Shaped American Culture

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Literature has always had an important place in both reflecting and influencing society. These books from the 1940s are as important today as they were then.

For Whom the Bell Tolls by Ernest Hemingway

What better way to start a list of influential books from the 1940s than with Ernest Hemingway? Hemingway is considered to be one of the all-time great American writers. Many argue that he was at his best in 1940’s For Whom the Bell Tolls. Like much of his work, the story is rooted firmly in humanity against the backdrop of jarring social conflict. It tells a story of war, death, and love. For generations, readers have continued to discover new meaning in this classic.

A Tree Grows in Brooklyn by Betty Smith

Written in 1943, this is a coming of age story centers on the experience of a young immigrant in turn of the century America. Interestingly enough, this book became associated with WWII although it had nothing to do with war. Copies of the book were given to soldiers to boost morale. For those serving overseas, it became a treasured link to their home towns. The book was celebrated for its ability to perfectly capture the American experience.

The Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank

This is not an American story. It is not from an American Author. However, this publication has helped generations of Americans to see the events surrounding WW2 from a different perspective. It’s easy to look at war across the globe in a less human light focused on tanks and bombs. Anne Franke’s diary, however, shared the very real story of a young girl experiencing the horrors of the Holocaust. For Americans reading the book after the war, it put a human face on tragedy that was beyond comprehension.

1984 by George Orwell

This is another famous book that was not a piece of American literature but had a tremendous influence on American culture. George Orwell’s most famous book, the story takes place in a dark future in the fictional “Oceania.” The story features science-fiction elements as well as themes of authoritarianism and the fear of government oppression. The story is very European and was written in Scotland by a man who was born in India and grew up in England. However, the themes of 1984 are often discussed today in the realm of American Politics and culture.

Are any of these 1940s books your favorites? Did you find anything to add to your reading list? Let us know what you think in the comments. Want more like this? Check out our blog for more ’40s and ’50s nostalgia. While you’re at it, follow The Greatest Generation on Facebook and Twitter for the latest updates.

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