Historia

Howard Zinn has died, but the damage has already been done: "People's History" Author Howard Zinn Dead at 89

Noted author and social activist Howard Zinn died of a heart attack Wednesday while traveling, his daughter, Myla Kabat-Zinn, said.

Zinn, author of "A People's History of the United States," was 89. Kabat-Zinn said her father, who lived in Auburndale, Massachusetts," died while traveling in Santa Monica, California.

"A People's History of the United States," first published in 1980, tells a history not often in seen in other books -- from the perspective of those not in a seat of power.

The book was the inspiration for a 2009 documentary, narrated by Zinn, called "The People Speak." The film highlighted people who spoke up for social change, according to the Web site of the History Channel, which aired the program.

Zinn was the founder of the modern Lies My Teacher Told Me school of American history. The theory, as I understand it, is that Zinn and his acolytes shine an unflattering light on some of the darker moments in American history; thus causing Americans to lose faith in the Constitution and give rise to "social justice." Whatever. Zinn is perfect for college graduates who don't want to actually learn about history. If you would rather learn about some dimly remembered long shoremens' strike, rather than contemplate the tragedy and spectacle of Pickett's Charge, Zinn was perfect. He will not be missed.