More than fifty years have passed since the tragic events at Kent State University, where four students lost their lives and nine others were injured when Ohio National Guard members opened fire during a war protest. The incident, which occurred in 1970, serves as a stark reminder of a nation deeply divided over the Vietnam War, a sentiment that resonates with today's political landscape.
In his book 'Kent State: An American Tragedy,' historian Brian VanDeMark delves into the polarized atmosphere of the time, where two opposing factions clashed with little hope of understanding each other. VanDeMark vividly captures the tension and suspicion that permeated the era, ultimately culminating in the tragic events at Kent State.
The author skillfully narrates the sequence of events that led to the fateful day, where in a span of less than 13 seconds, 30 guardsmen fired 67 shots at protesters. VanDeMark aptly describes how the Vietnam War and the spirit of the Sixties collided on the campus, forever altering its course.
VanDeMark's narrative provides a comprehensive examination of the factors that fueled dissent against U.S. involvement in Vietnam and how it manifested at Kent State. Drawing on new sources, including interviews with guardsmen involved in the incident, the author reconstructs the protests and the subsequent shooting, shedding light on the aftermath and legal battles that followed.
'Kent State' also sheds light on the enduring impact of the tragedy on the university, noting that it took two decades for an official memorial to be erected on campus. The opening of a visitors center dedicated to the shooting in 2012 marked a step towards acknowledging and understanding the events of that fateful day.
VanDeMark's work not only serves as a historical account but also contributes to a broader conversation about the legacy of Kent State. By offering a nuanced perspective on the tragedy, the author prompts readers to reflect on the implications of past events and their relevance to contemporary society.
