Analysis Of Amusing The Million By John Kasson

Today, when one hears the words, “Coney Island”, perhaps a hotdog place comes to mind but to most, it’s a geographical location that epitomizes a momentous shift in society and essentially commences the American melting pot. With its eye-catching attractions, immense diversity, and loads of scenery, it’s no surprise Coney Island was popular during its grand opening and years to come. However, Coney Island categorizes as more than an enormous playground and carnival for America. It became the staple of American culture and society. In Amusing the Million: Coney Island at the Turn of the Century by John E. Kasson, the author utilizes photos and historical facts to depict his argument: Coney Island represents an emergence of a mass culture and

Olmsted, an environmental designer was concern with conservation, hoping to “retain proximity with nature in what was swiftly becoming a nation of cities” (Kasson 11). He opted to create parks and places that would give pleasure and a sense of relaxation for individuals. In this, Olmstead desired to make parks that everyone would enjoy coming to. Central Park, designed by Olmstead himself was intended to distant one’s self from the chaotic city life. In addition to Olmsted’s contribution to parks, the World’s Columbian Exposition also played a major role into paving the way for Coney Island. The event was composed to bring awareness to the four hundredth anniversary of the discovery of America. Full of life, bright lights, and exhibits, it classified as one of the most extravagant events in history (Kasson 17). Such infrastructure led to the the “City Beautiful” movement—a term that describes urban planning to improve appearances. The World’s Columbian Exposition juxtaposed Central Park, to which it enhanced and emphasized the city life, “[heightening] the sense of [the] possibility of what a city might be” (Kasson

Through the years, the place symbolizes diversity on a whole other level. During this era, American values and culture was evolving significantly. These modifications caused quite a stir amongst the majority, but nonetheless did more so to gear society to come together and enjoy the things Coney Island has to offer. Immigration came pouring in this period, to which Coney Island “provided a means [for immigrants] to participate in mainstream American culture on an equal footing” (Kasson 40). It also gave individuals the opportunity to interact with a mixture of people, “[encouraging] visitors to shed momentarily their accustomed roles and status” (Kasson