The tale of New York's Young Reds-a riveting journey through the YPA's rise and influence Young Reds in the Big Apple: The New York YPA, 1923-1934 by Jack Hodgson is a compelling historical account that delves into the heart of American communism through the lens of New York City's Young Pioneers of America (YPA). This meticulously researched book sheds light on a neglected aspect of American history, revealing the intricate details of the YPA's formation, ideologies, and activities from 1923 to 1934. Hodgson illustrates the YPA's journey, from its early days as a branch of the Communist Party USA, intended for youth aged 8-16, to its eventual disbandment. The book explores the organization's unique structure, ethos, and activities, showcasing how it became a formidable force in New York's political landscape. He vividly portrays the YPA members' involvement in public protests, education reform, and their bold stance against prevailing social norms, including racial and gender issues. The narrative goes beyond mere historical recounting, offering deep insights into the internal dynamics of the YPA, its relationship with the adult Communist Party, and its interactions with other political entities. Hodgson's analysis of the YPA's impact on its young members and the broader community is both insightful and thought-provoking. Young Reds in the Big Apple stands out for its rigorous approach to a controversial subject, avoiding partisanship to provide a balanced view of the YPA's legacy. This book is not just a historical account; it's an exploration of youthful activism, political movements, and the complexities of American communism during a pivotal era.
Jack Hodgson, Lecturer in History at the University of Roehampton, London, specializes in American communism and youth movements. His work has been featured in Qualitative Inquiry, New York History, Rethinking History, and the Journal of American Studies. Hodgson is also a recipient of the Ellen Craft Prize from the Scottish Association for the Study of America.
List of Abbreviations vii Introduction 1 Part I: A New Vision for American Communist Childhood 1. The JSYWL and YPA Regulations 13 2. Leo Granoff: Harlem's "Boy Trotsky" and YPA Tactics 20 3. Radical Recreations 31 Part II: Children of the Class Struggle 4. Pioneer Politicians and the CPUSA 55 5. Pioneers and Picket Lines 65 Part III: The School Struggle 6. Countering Capitalist Curriculum and Corporal Punishment 77 7. School Lunch Revolts 84 8. The Lenin Unit at PS 61 91 Part IV: Pioneers and Political Opponents 9. Periodical Culture, the Fish Inquiry, and the US Post Office 105 10. The Van Etten Camp Controversy 118 11. Bashing the Boy Scouts and the Campaigns to Free Harry Eisman 130 Conclusion 157 Acknowledgments 163 Appendices 165 Notes 171 Bibliography 189 Index 195
Jack Hodgson narrates a significant aspect of the history of the American left that no scholar has revealed before. Young Reds in the Big Apple is also a delight to read.---Michael Kazin, author of What It Took to Win: A History of the Democratic Party This book is a welcome contribution to the research on the relationship between radical, left-wing movements and children. What Hodgson has done is to focus on one of the unique aspects of the Young Pioneers in the US, sponsored by the CPUSA during the 1920s: their belief in the importance of children. Much of the previous work in this area has looked at the relations between red parents and their children. Hodgson takes the Young Pioneers own focus on the autonomous activity and development of the children themselves. He has found very important new sources and has brought to light childrens' stories of their own activism.---Paul C. Mishler, author of Raising Reds: The Young Pioneers, Radical Summer Camps, and Communist Political Culture in the United States A compelling analysis of interwar radicalism and the continuation of the Red Scare state. Hodgson offers new insights into young people's radical beliefs and activism and how these were shaped by a period of continued radical thought and consequent Red Scare state.---Britt Haas, Siena College
