The Indiana Way: A State History

by James H. Madison

"This is a splendid example of how to write well balanced, highly readable state history." ―The Old Northwest

"Madison has succeeded as have few other authors of state histories in blending modern scholarly concerns with the traditional narrative historiography of his state. This book is in many ways a model state history." ―Choice

"Neither too detailed and provincial, nor too broad and comparative, The Indiana Way adopts an integrated analytical approach, but also includes some narrative and biography." ―Journal of American History

Genres: History, Nonfiction, Historical, American History

384 pages, Paperback

First published August 22, 1990

About the author

James H. Madison is the Thomas and Kathryn Miller Professor of History Emeritus, Indiana University Bloomington. Madison serves on the boards of Indiana Humanities and the Indiana Historical Society and is a member of the Indiana Bicentennial Commission. He began teaching Indiana history in 1976 and has lectured and consulted widely on Indiana topics.

Reviews

[Devan Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a very good introduction to Indiana history that anyone, whether familiar or unfamiliar with the topic, will benefit from. Of course, if you are a Hoosier, like me, it might have more meaning to you. Madison adds plenty of references that will make any native son or daughter think to themselves "he said the thing."

For me, the first two of the four sections of this book were the best. He really shines some light on the distant pioneer and industrialization periods of Indiana history. I learned a lot about the territorial period of Indiana, especially. While the entire book is broad brush of Hoosier History, the first two sections did a much better job of going into seemingly relevant specifics. I felt that the last two sections were a little light on such specifics. For example, he brushes over Indiana's regrettable history with the KKK, basically saying very little of consequence happened. It seemed like he was avoiding it because it is a shameful part of our history. That, and a few other examples, were rather regrettable omissions from an otherwise fairly objective history.

All in all, the book was a very enjoyable read. He has a very down to earth, witty, and dryly humorous style that keeps you engaged even when talking about 1970's tax policy (yawn). The aforementioned problems kept it from a 5 star for me, but I would recommend this to anyone wanting an introduction to the topic. I would love to see an update that goes beyond the 1980's.

[Ted Hinkle · Rating 4 out of 5]

James A. Madison, Associate professor of history at Indiana University provides a thorough history of Indiana Territory from 1600 through statehood in 1816 to present with publication for Indiana Historical Society in 1986. Being a native "Hoosier" I enjoyed recalling the facts presented as well as gaining further insight into our heritage. Madison reiterates the characteristics of a native Hoosiers as conservative, mainstream Americans, never quick to change, distinctively proud of their achievements and always happy to "smell the new-mown hay". As the state poem depicts..."God crowned her hills with beauty". A good historical read for all Hoosiers. (4.5)

[Mark Dill · Rating 5 out of 5]

A surprisingly enjoyable history book. It provides a tremendous learning experience without a drab academic feel. I learned things about my home state, particularly its early history as a territory. If you are interested in a lesson in American history from a different POV, this is a winner.

[Danny Schlegel · Rating 3 out of 5]

Finally! Learned a lot of back story and information about Indiana history. I understand how native Indianaians/Hoosiers came to be and why. But this was like reading a textbook.

[Briapedia · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a very good book, giving a broad history of Indiana from pioneer days till recent times. From the tough times in the 1830s, to growth after the Civil War, and the golden age in literature, it gives a great look at how the state came to be how it is. Being from Indiana, it really helped me appreciate my state, and what my ancestors went through.

[The Book Maven]

It's not just a history, but also an attempted explanation for "why things are the way they are" in Indiana--the origin of Hoosiers' aversion to big government and taxes, their slowness to adopt major change. "Evolutionary rather than revolutionary" is an oft-repeated phrase in this text book

[Barbara Wellnitz]

Good background on Indiana!

[Marne · Rating 3 out of 5]

Reading for my class at IU taught by the author.

[Korry Thorpe · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good Author, boring state.

[Troy Brock]

I really enjoy this. Learning what 'I thought' I knew.