New Books in History John M. Findlay, "The Mobilized American West, 1940-2000" (U Nebraska Press, 2023)
Jan 23, 2026
John M. Findlay, Professor Emeritus at the University of Washington, dives into the transformative impact of World War II on the American West, highlighting its ongoing influence. He discusses how federal investments reshaped the economy and population, creating a perpetual state of mobilization. Findlay also explores the West's role in social movements of the 1960s and 70s, the mechanics of direct democracy in politics, and the enduring issues of land ownership conflicts, including violence and Native land tensions, all emphasizing the region's unique identity.
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Mobilization Transformed The West
- World War II and the Cold War transformed the West through sustained federal mobilization and investment.
- The West's population quadrupled from 14 million in 1940 to over 62 million by 2000, reshaping its economy and politics.
A Physician's Move West
- John M. Findlay recounts his father Jack moving from Oklahoma to the Pacific Northwest after wartime training in Oregon and Washington.
- Jack's letters and enthusiasm for mountains, ocean, and outdoor life illustrate why many veterans stayed or returned to the West.
Initiatives Shaped Western Politics
- Western states used direct democracy (initiatives, referenda, recalls) far more than other regions, shaping policy choices.
- Weak party structures and independent voting made initiatives a frequent tool on labor, environment, language, and drug policy.
