The Heartland

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Upon arriving in Champaign, Illinois, after an impressive academic journey, Kristin L. Hoganson anticipated a sense of isolation in her new home, viewing it as a quintessential representation of the American heartland. However, she was surprised to discover a stark contrast between the region's reputation and its reality. This prompted her to investigate the historical and mythological narratives surrounding the Midwest. As she delved deeper, she uncovered a rich tapestry of connections among people, commerce, and ideas, revealing the heartland as a significant crossroads rather than a mere provincial backdrop. Despite the region's growing global ties, the myth of the rural Midwest as a steadfast heartland persisted, overshadowing more complex stories. Hoganson's exploration highlights the repression of diverse narratives in favor of a singular, symbolic heart. Her work is a thought-provoking piece of historical scholarship that addresses contemporary issues such as identity, community, immigration, trade, security, and global power. It challenges readers to reconsider the term "heartland" and its implications, offering a nuanced understanding of a region often oversimplified in popular discourse.