Tramp in America

Rating:
Summary: Carefully dissects numerous stereotypes held about tramps
Review: The Tramp In America brings to life the myths and the reality of the homeless "tramp" in the United States between 1869 and 1939 - from the economic hardship that followed in wake of the Civil War up through the Great Depression. The author carefully dissects numerous stereotypes held about tramps, particularly in the years gone by: that they were a threat to domestic women, that they were diseased and genetically unsound, and that they were always male - when evidence exists of female tramps who disguised themselves as men. There is also an extensive analysis of tramps in cartoons and movies, including Charlie Chaplin's memorable characters. Carefully researched, yet presented clearly enough for the lay person to immerse himself or herself, Tim Cresswell's The Tramp In America is a fascinating look into a specific slice of national history and culture.

Rating:
Summary: Carefully dissects numerous stereotypes held about tramps
Review: The Tramp In America brings to life the myths and the reality of the homeless "tramp" in the United States between 1869 and 1939 - from the economic hardship that followed in wake of the Civil War up through the Great Depression. The author carefully dissects numerous stereotypes held about tramps, particularly in the years gone by: that they were a threat to domestic women, that they were diseased and genetically unsound, and that they were always male - when evidence exists of female tramps who disguised themselves as men. There is also an extensive analysis of tramps in cartoons and movies, including Charlie Chaplin's memorable characters. Carefully researched, yet presented clearly enough for the lay person to immerse himself or herself, Tim Cresswell's The Tramp In America is a fascinating look into a specific slice of national history and culture.