Robert M.La Follette and the Insurgent Spirit - Softcover

More than a biography of La Follette, this study is a thoughtful documentary of the insurgent movement he led. The Christian Science Monitor " A splendid little book, jumping with ideas and insights. . . . David Thelen has shrewdly and provocatively sketched out a major thesis concerning the rise and fall of progressivism. Wisconsin Magazine of History " Thelen has pitched the historical debate over insurgency-progressivism on a new level which, while it will stir much controversy, is bound to stimulate further scholarship. Historians can ignore this study only at their own peril. Future writings on Progressivism, whether or not they agree with Thelen's work, must come to grips with it. Higher praise can hardly be accorded a work by any scholar. Reviews in American History " "More than a biography of La Follette, this study is a thoughtful documentary of the insurgent movement he led."--"The Christian Science Monitor" "A splendid little book, jumping with ideas and insights. . . . David Thelen has shrewdly and provocatively sketched out a major thesis concerning the rise and fall of progressivism." --"Wisconsin Magazine of History" "Thelen has pitched the historical debate over insurgency-progressivism on a new level which, while it will stir much controversy, is bound to stimulate further scholarship. Historians can ignore this study only at their own peril. Future writings on Progressivism, whether or not they agree with Thelen's work, must come to grips with it. Higher praise can hardly be accorded a work by any scholar."--"Reviews in American History"

Robert M. La Follette and the Insurgent Spirit is a closely argued, lively, and readable biography of the central figure in the American Progressive movement. Wisconsin's Fighting Bob La Follette embodied the heart of Progressive sentiment and principle. He was a powerful force in shaping national political events between the eras of Populism and the New Deal "