Harry Elmer Barnes Historical Review and the Effects of Historical Revisionism

Jacob Hilgartner

doi:10.29173/mruhr537

Abstract

The growing presence of historical revisionim today that plagues the Historical academic community has its roots in the past works of Historical writers and the steps taken to give greater perspective and context to misinterprated events by modern History writers is often undermined by the continued presence of misinformation and its rapid spread through the public and political sphere. This historical review looks at Harry Elmer Barnes who was a 20th century historical writer and known revisionistand holocaust excuser and sometimes even denier. The way in which prediction but speculative analysis can lead to revisionist talking points will also be examined using his works. A detailed synopsis of his career, examination of his article Europes War and Our Democracy, and his later correspondences will be given in order to show the way in which historical revisionism can effect even those academics held in high esteem within the Historical faculty.

Highlights

Harry Elmer Barnes remains a controversial figure and is a prime example of historical revisionism and the effects it can have on historical works
Barnes would start his career as an American historian who focused on a broad range of subjects in terms of social conflicts and would deliver works on everything from criminology to American foreign policy.[1]
Barnes himself would have been viewed as a progressive even by todays standard, with many of his works advocating equality for woman and for the African American communities, whose treatment by the American state was a stain on the ideals of liberty it tried to espouse.[4]

Summary

Introduction

Harry Elmer Barnes Historical Review and the effects of Historical Revisionism Harry Elmer Barnes remains a controversial figure and is a prime example of historical revisionism and the effects it can have on historical works.

Results

Conclusion