Degree Name
MALS (Master of Arts in Liberal Studies)
Program
Liberal Studies
Date of Award
5-2015
Committee Chair or Co-Chairs
Marie Tedesco
Committee Members
Ted Olson, Ron Roach
Abstract
This thesis examines the formation of Appalachian studies as an academic field from roughly 1970 to 1982. First, this thesis analyses regionalism and what defines a region, focusing on the different contexts and narratives through which Appalachia has been described. Second, this thesis examines how scholars and activists in the region challenged prevailing narratives and sought new ways to examine and contextualize the region. Efforts to challenge stereotypes and address the social, political, and economic problems of the region galvanized academics and activists alike. Despite their similar work and shared vision for an interdisciplinary regional field, academics and activists often disagreed on the methodologies and goals of Appalachian studies.
Document Type
Thesis - unrestricted
Recommended Citation
Booker, Emily, "Appalachian Studies as an Academic and Activist Field, 1970-1982" (2015). Electronic Theses and Dissertations. Paper 2488. https://dc.etsu.edu/etd/2488
Copyright
Copyright by the author.