Essential History for Public Administration

Essential History for Public Administration offers public affairs faculty and students a concise introduction to crucial elements of American history, creating a foundation for stronger discussion of current conditions in governance and management. It is designed as a brief supplemental text for use in public affairs courses rather than as a replacement for core assigned readings. The premise of the book is that enhanced knowledge of the history of the public sector can help students of public affairs design and manage successful programs.

Box's new book, Essential History for Public Administration, is the most exciting development I have seen in readings for public administration students, in some time! It is a compelling and accessible read, perfect for busy in-service students, pre-service, and those within all stages of the Digital Age.

The book is organized brilliantly, weaving common themes through four eras of change, from the Founding Era to the present time. This narrative format is pedagogically sound, allowing the reader to grasp the relevance to our 21st century realities, as well as to understand that some of the issues wrestled with in the Founding Era are reflected in today's discourse. These threads provide the fundamental fabric of our remarkable American Experiment--an experience in which all public professionals are called upon to navigate.

Laurie DiPadova-Stocks, Park University