The author's critical analysis requires the reader's own
While well written and an interesting perspective, you really have to retain your own critical thinking before rushing to the negative side this book presents.
To suggest that somehow one group of ruthless, zealous rich people are responsible for creating the imperialist and destructive city is ridiculous. The rest of us were just innocent, unwilling and unwitting bystanders/accomplices? Foolish.
Take for instance Giannini, the man who started a 'community bank' that eventually became BofA. This is story that's almost analogous to the It's A Wonderful Life thread that a little ole savings and loan can help people in their own striving for the american dream. He saved the fortune from the fire and him and others used their wealth to rebuild the city. Hundreds of millions of dollars. Consider that if it weren't for the gold rush, there might not have been the money. Consider this today - do you think any uber wealthy individuals would spend their fortunes on rebuilding the world trade center? Of course not. There's STILL a gaping hole there.
To me this is why the city can be both considered imperialist, but also still dreamy. It has detractors and benefactors, and at times these were motivations held at the same time by these 'barrons'. It is its charm that it can have this diversity along with everything else.
History told as stories
Simply put, Imperial San Francisco may be one of the best city history books out there. Brechin doesn't simply go chronologically through San Francisco's moments and players through time. He actually focuses on a particular elements (e.g. William Randolph Hearst, creation of Hetch Hetchy, Comstock Load, or Stanfords) and tells the story of that person or issue. In so doing, he brings you in closer to the events and people that mattered while keeping you interested. At the same time, "Imperial San Francisco" makes sure you know the big picture and how these events have influenced San Francisco and the region to this day.
I highly recommend this book. I've given it as a gift to multiple friends. Good pick for anyone who likes History, San Francisco, historical stories, or cities.
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