Occult America

I just finished reading the fascinating book, Occult America: The Secret History of How Mysticism Shaped Our Nation, by Mitch Horowitz.  As the title implies, this is a non-fiction work which traces the influence of "magical" beliefs and ideas on the development of the U.S.  And it is every bit as interesting and thorough as one would hope for such a supremely juicy topic.

Perhaps surprisingly, Salem and its witches are not a primary focus here at all.  In fact, Horowitz uncovers the beginnings of the so-called occult movement a bit south of there, in the "Burned-over District" of New York state, and then down into Philly area.  From there, we're taken on a wild intellectual ride across the country and spanning decades.  Highlights include an in-depth look at the Theosophy movement (and its subsequent influence on Gandhi and Martin Luther King, Jr.); occult dabblings of various political figures including Abe and Mary Todd Lincoln, Vice President Henry A. Wallace, and Ronald Reagan; and the evolution of the Ouiji board from divinatory tool to pop sensation.

Besides being filled to the brim with interesting factoids and loads of well-researched anecdotes (including plenty of primary source excerpts), the book is a lively and accessible account of the history of such important American tenants as religious tolerance and positive thinking.  It's amazing to think that today's societal ideals such as equality and personal development are offshoots of the beliefs of various mystical subcultures and alternative thought leaders, but Horowitz's arguments are entirely convincing.

I can't recommend Occult America highly enough.  Anyone interested in history (be it magical or otherwise) will enjoy this revealing and informative book. 

***As an added bonus, I'm delighted to announce that Mitch Horowitz will be speaking at OBSERVATORY on December 4th at 8pm.  More info can be found here.

Comments

[annie]

oh! i am definitely going to have to look for this book.

[rachael]

this book looks so interesting! i'm curious to know how philly is involved in all this, since that's my hometown. i know that philadelphia has one of the largest voodoo practicing populations in the states too. if you get a chance to visit there are some great "back alley" occult shops!

[Rose]

I always enjoy your blog!!!!
Check our the blog Occult of Personality. Sept 8 and Sept 16
hosted Mitch Horowitz and his book.
Also some interesting podcasts.
Excellent site!

[Pam]

Thanks, all!