To the Promised Land
Tom Marsh
A comprehensive political history of Oregon, To the Promised Land examines the social and economic changes the state has pioneered over almost two hundred years. Highlighting major political figures, campaigns, and ballot measures, Tom Marsh traces the evolution of Oregon from incorporated territory to a state at the forefront of national environmental and social movements.
From the first letter sent to Congress by Jason Lee, urging them to take possession of the Oregon Country for the United States, to John Kitzhaber’s precedent-setting third term as governor; from the land frauds of the early twentieth century to the state’s land-use planning goals; from the Beach Bill to the Bottle Bill, this book tells Oregon’s story.
To the Promised Land provides the first general history of Oregon’s state government and political leaders. Marsh combines the clear expository style of a professional educator with the expertise of a political inside —a former U.S. history high school teacher, he also served two terms in the Oregon House of Representatives.
Featuring interesting trivia, historical photographs, and biographical sketches of key politicians, this book will be a popular volume for general readers and public libraries as well as for textbook use in secondary and higher education classrooms.
About the author
Tom Marsh taught high school history in Oregon for twenty-eight years. He represented eastern Washington County in the state legislature from 1975-1979, and has participated in numerous political campaigns over a span of nearly fifty years. He lives in Salem, Oregon.
Read more about this author
There are many ways to define a region, yet no single definition can completely capture its essence. The diverse books published by university presses help define and describe the complexity of various regions, covering everything from a region's history, culture, flora and fauna, geography, natural history, ecosystems, watersheds, and political history, to its folklore, literature, and art. They may include reprint editions of out-of-print regional classics, as well as newly written books. Such books are usually written for general readers as well as scholars and students, with an emphasis on good writing and accessibility, and published in attractively designed, well-illustrated editions. Increasingly, such books are available electronically—some with digital ancillaries—as well as in print.