Bernard DeVoto

Bernard DeVoto

Bernard DeVoto was born on January 11th, 1897

Full Name: Bernard DeVoto
Profession: Historian
Nationality: American
Occupation: Author
Known For: The Year of Decision
Birth Place: Ogden, Utah, USA
Zodiac Sign: Leo
Awards: Pulitzer Prize

A Pulitzer Prize-winning historian and author who explored the American West, conservation, and Mark Twain's life and works. His writings continue to influence Western American literature and environmentalism.

Written by: Aisha Patel Aisha Patel

Bernard DeVoto: The Pioneering Historian and Conservationist

With a career spanning multiple genres, Bernard DeVoto is renowned for his Pulitzer Prize-winning histories of the American West and his provocative column, "The Easy Chair," in Harpers Magazine. As a historian, conservationist, essayist, columnist, teacher, editor, and reviewer, DeVoto left an indelible mark on American literature and history.

Early Life and Education

Born on January 11, 1897, in Ogden, Utah, to Florian and Rhoda DeVoto, Bernard's life was shaped by the cultural tensions between his Catholic father of Italian descent and his mother, the daughter of a Mormon farmer. This unique blend of heritage influenced DeVoto's perspective and fueled his passion for storytelling. He attended Ogden High School and briefly worked at the Ogden Standard before pursuing higher education at the University of Utah and later at Harvard University, where he graduated in 1920.

A Career of Provocation and Brilliance

In 1922, DeVoto began his teaching career as an English instructor at Northwestern University, where he also started publishing articles and novels under the pseudonyms John August and Cady Hewes. His resignation from Northwestern in 1927 marked the beginning of his full-time writing career, which he pursued alongside part-time instructing at Harvard University.

DeVoto's writing was characterized by its provocative nature, earning him both acclaim and criticism. His column, "The Easy Chair," in Harpers Magazine, became a platform for his incisive commentary on politics, culture, and society. This influential column not only showcased his brilliant writing but also helped to popularize the work of Italian economist Vilfredo Pareto to a wider audience.

Pulitzer Prize-Winning Histories

DeVoto's most notable works are his Pulitzer Prize-winning histories of the American West, including "Across the Wide Missouri" (1947), "The Course of Empire" (1952), and "The Year of Decision: 1846" (1943). These meticulously researched and engagingly written books have become seminal works in the field of American history, offering a fresh perspective on the country's westward expansion.

Awards and Honors

Personal Milestones and Key Life Events

DeVoto's personal life was marked by his marriage to Avis DeVoto, with whom he moved to Massachusetts in pursuit of a writing career. Although he never secured a permanent position at Harvard University, DeVoto continued to teach and write, leaving an indelible mark on American literature and history.

Influence on Modern Society

Bernard DeVoto's work has had a lasting impact on American society, inspiring generations of historians, writers, and conservationists. His commitment to preserving the American West's natural beauty and cultural heritage has influenced environmental policies and conservation efforts. DeVoto's writings have also shaped the way Americans perceive their country's history, fostering a deeper understanding of the complexities and contradictions that have shaped the nation.

Legacy

Bernard DeVoto's life and work serve as a testament to the power of provocative thinking and brilliant writing. Through his contributions to American history, literature, and conservation, DeVoto has left an enduring legacy that continues to inspire and educate generations of scholars, writers, and thinkers.

Timeline
1897
Birth of Bernard DeVoto
Bernard DeVoto was born on January 11, 1897, in Ogden, Utah, USA. He would go on to become an American historian and author.
1922
Joined Harvard University
DeVoto joined Harvard University as an instructor, beginning his academic career.
1940
Published The Year of Decision
DeVoto published his influential book The Year of Decision, exploring American history.
1953
Awarded Pulitzer Prize
DeVoto was awarded the Pulitzer Prize for History, recognizing his contributions to historical writing.
1955
Died at 58
DeVoto passed away on November 13, 1955, at the age of 58, leaving behind a legacy in American historiography.
Bernard DeVoto

Bernard DeVoto Quiz

Bernard DeVoto's writings are known to have significantly influenced which literary genre?

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FAQ
What was Bernard DeVotos career as a historian like?
Bernard DeVoto was a prominent historian and author who wrote extensively on the American West and its history. He was a professor of English and historian at Harvard University.
What topics did Bernard DeVoto write about?
Bernard DeVoto wrote about a wide range of topics, including the American West, exploration, and the environment. He was particularly known for his work on the Lewis and Clark expedition.
What awards did Bernard DeVoto win for his writing?
Bernard DeVoto won several awards for his writing, including the Pulitzer Prize for History and the National Book Award.
What was Bernard DeVotos role in the conservation movement?
Bernard DeVoto was a prominent conservationist and advocate for the protection of Americas natural resources. He wrote extensively on the importance of preserving the American West and its natural beauty.
How is Bernard DeVoto remembered in the historical community?
Bernard DeVoto is remembered as a pioneering historian and conservationist who brought attention to the importance of preserving Americas natural heritage. He is celebrated for his contributions to the field of history and his commitment to environmental conservation.

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