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The unfinished journey: america since world war ii, william h. chafe.

Oxford University Press

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• 1. The War Years
• 2. Origins of the Cold War
• 3. Truman and the Cold War
• 4. "The Other Half of the Walnut"
• 5. The Paradox of Change
• 6. The Civil Rights Movement
• 7. John F. Kennedy
• 9. Vietnam - The Early Years
• 10. "Lyndon's War"
• 11. Coming Apart at Home
• 13. "Bringing Us Together"
• 14. An Era of Political Malaise
• 15. A Divided Culture, A Divided Society
• 16. The Reagan Years
• 17. The 1990s
• 18. 2000 and Beyond
• Bibliographic Essay
• (source: Nielsen Book Data)

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Work of the Fellows: Monographs

The Unfinished Journey: America since World War II

By William H. Chafe (NHC Fellow, 1981–82)

New York: Oxford University Press , 1986

From the publisher’s description:

This popular and classic text chronicles America's roller-coaster journey through the decades since World War II. Considering both the paradoxes and the possibilities of postwar America, William H. Chafe portrays the significant cultural and political themes that have colored our country's past and present, including issues of race, class, gender, foreign policy, and economic and social reform. He examines such subjects as the Vietnam War, the civil rights movement, the origins and the end of the Cold War, the culture of the 1970s, the rise of the New Right, the events of September 11th and their aftermath, and various presidencies.

Now thoroughly revised and updated, the seventh edition of  The Unfinished Journey  combines and reorganizes several chapters. The former Chapter 14, "New Rules, Old Realities," is now divided into two chapters. The new Chapter 14, "An Era of Political Malaise," covers the political history of the 1970s. It is followed by Chapter 15, "A Divided Culture, A Divided Society," which assesses the shifting cultural landscape of the 1970s and the emergence of major fissures in the social system of the nation. The final chapter contains substantial new material on the administration of George W. Bush, the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, the election of 2008, and the first year of Barack Obama's presidency. Brilliantly written by a prize-winning historian,  The Unfinished Journey , Seventh Edition, is an essential text for all students of recent American history.

Chafe, William H. (NHC Fellow, 1981–82) . The Unfinished Journey: America since World War II . New York: Oxford University Press, 1986.

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The Unfinished Journey : America since World War II

By william h. chafe.

Brilliantly written by a prize-winning historian, The Unfinished Journey , Eighth Edition, considers both the paradoxes and the possibilities of postwar America. William H. Chafe portrays the significant cultural and political themes that have colored our country's past and present, including issues of race, class, gender, foreign policy, and economic and social reform. He examines such subjects as the Vietnam War, the civil rights movement, the origins and the end of the Cold War, the culture of the 1970s, the rise of the New Right, the events of September 11th and their aftermath, and various presidencies.

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Spruce Up Your Unfinished Basement With These Helpful Tips

Posted: February 15, 2024 | Last updated: February 15, 2024

Unfinished basements often evoke images of cold, damp, and dark spaces used for storage or housing outdated furniture. However, with a bit of creativity and some DIY magic, these underutilized spaces can be transformed into warm, inviting areas that serve a multitude of functions. Whether you're looking to add an extra bedroom, a home office, or a recreational area, there are endless unfinished basement ideas that can breathe new life into your home.

Unlocking the Potential of Your Unfinished Basement

The journey to transforming your unfinished basement starts with envisioning the potential of the space. Begin by considering the needs of your household. Are you in dire need of an extra bedroom, or are you dreaming of a personal gym? Once you have a clear idea of how you want to utilize the space, it's time to address any fundamental issues. Ensuring your basement is free from moisture, has adequate insulation, and proper lighting are critical steps that lay the foundation for a successful transformation. These initial steps not only protect your investment but also ensure the space is comfortable and welcoming.

Creating a detailed plan that includes a budget, timeline, and design preferences will keep the project on track. Remember, the goal is to create a space that feels like a natural extension of your home, so choosing finishes and decor that complement the upper levels is key. This planning phase is the perfect time to get creative with unfinished basement ideas, exploring everything from the layout to the color scheme.

Creative Ideas to Transform Your Unfinished Basement

With the basics in place, it's time to dive into the fun part—design and decoration. One popular idea is converting your basement into a cozy family room. Imagine plush sofas, a big-screen TV, and maybe even a popcorn machine for those movie nights at home. Soft lighting, warm colors, and thick carpets can make the space feel snug and inviting.

For those who love to entertain, why not turn your basement into the ultimate party room? Think about adding a bar area, a pool table, or even a dance floor. This could be your space to host memorable gatherings without worrying about the mess or noise affecting the rest of the house. Lighting plays a crucial role here—adjustable and varied light sources can transform the ambiance from bright and energetic to soft and intimate with the flick of a switch.

Crafting Personal Spaces in Your Basement

Unfinished basements offer the perfect opportunity to create personal spaces tailored to your hobbies and interests. Whether it's a workshop for your DIY projects, a serene yoga studio, or a vibrant art studio, these spaces can be designed to inspire creativity and productivity. Incorporating natural elements, such as wood and plants, can make these areas feel more connected to the outdoors, enhancing the overall ambiance.

For those with children, consider dedicating a portion of the basement to a kids' play area. This can be a game-changer, providing a safe and spacious environment for play, away from the main living areas. Incorporating bright colors, durable materials, and plenty of storage for toys will make this a hit with both kids and adults.

The Non-Negotiables for Your Basement Transformation

While aesthetics are important, the comfort and safety of your basement are paramount. Investing in good quality insulation will not only keep the space warm in winter and cool in summer but also contribute to the overall energy efficiency of your home. Proper egress windows are a must, not only for natural light but also to ensure safety in case of an emergency.

Additionally, consider the acoustics of the space. If you're planning to use your basement for entertainment or as a play area, soundproofing the walls can prevent noise from traveling upstairs, maintaining peace and quiet throughout the rest of the home. These practical considerations are essential for creating a space that is truly functional and enjoyable.

Reaping The Rewards of a Well-Planned Basement Makeover

After all the hard work, the final step is to sit back and enjoy your newly transformed basement. Whether it's hosting a movie night in your new family room, enjoying a quiet moment in your personal retreat, or entertaining friends in your party room, the possibilities are endless.

The satisfaction of turning an overlooked space into a vibrant part of your home is unmatched. Not only have you added valuable square footage to your home, but you've also created a space that reflects your family's needs and personalities.

Transforming an unfinished basement into a cozy, functional space is a rewarding project that can significantly enhance your home's livability and value. By carefully planning and creatively approaching the makeover, you can unlock the hidden potential of your basement.

Remember, the key to a successful transformation lies in balancing practical considerations with your personal style and needs. So, gather your unfinished basement ideas, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to turn your vision into reality.

Ready to start your next project? Join our DIY community to receive tool tips, how-to guides, and exclusive creative insights. Subscribe to the ManMadeDIY newsletter now! 

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PLYMOUTH - The Mayflower II is returning to Massachusetts, and you can track its journey home online.

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Bye, Barbie! Margot Robbie Tries Out 2024’s Biggest Hair Cut And Color Trend

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The Unfinished Journey: America Since World War II 4th Edition

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• ISBN-10 9780195116182
• ISBN-13 978-0195116182
• Edition 4th
• Publisher Oxford University Press
• Publication date November 19, 1998
• Language English
• Dimensions 6.1 x 1.2 x 9.1 inches
• Print length 592 pages
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About the author, product details.

• ASIN ‏ : ‎ 0195116186
• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Oxford University Press; 4th edition (November 19, 1998)
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Paperback ‏ : ‎ 592 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 9780195116182
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-0195116182
• Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 1.76 pounds
• Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 6.1 x 1.2 x 9.1 inches
• #1,726 in United States Local Government
• #5,446 in United States History (Books)
• #220,169 in Unknown

About the author

William henry chafe.

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This Artificially Intelligent Pin Wants to Free You From Your Phone

The $700 Ai Pin, funded by OpenAI’s Sam Altman and Microsoft, can be helpful — until it struggles with tasks like doing math and crafting sandwich recipes.

Humane’s Ai Pin projected on the hand of the New York Times reporter Brian Chen. Credit...

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By Brian X. Chen

Photographs and Video by Andri Tambunan

Brian X. Chen is The Times’s lead consumer technology writer and the author of Tech Fix , a column about the social implications of the tech we use.

• April 11, 2024

On a recent afternoon, I held a bagel in front of me and said: “Look and tell me if this is healthy.”

A monotone voice responded that the bagel was unhealthy because it was high in carbohydrates, which could contribute to weight gain.

I wasn’t talking to a tech bro obsessed with the ketogenic diet. This was the Ai Pin, a $700 tiny computer featuring a virtual assistant pulling data from OpenAI (the research firm behind the ChatGPT chatbot), Google, Microsoft and others to answer questions and perform tasks.

Shaped like a lapel pin that may be a throwback to “Star Trek,” it attaches to your clothing with magnets and is supposed to offload tasks you would normally do with a smartphone, like taking notes, searching the web and shooting photos. Instead of a screen, the pin shines a green laser on your hand to show text. The device includes a camera, speaker and cellular connection.

The novel design of the Ai Pin, which was made by the start-up Humane, generated buzz when it was unveiled late last year. Sam Altman, OpenAI’s chief executive, and companies including Microsoft and Salesforce have placed a bold bet — to the tune of $240 million in funding for Humane — that artificially intelligent hardware like the Ai Pin will become the next big thing after the smartphone. (The New York Times sued OpenAI and Microsoft last year for using copyrighted news articles without permission to train chatbots.)

Humane said its goal with the Ai Pin was to offer technology that would help people avoid screens and maintain eye contact.

• Brian Chen asks the Humane Ai Pin about a bagel.
• Brian Chen asks the Humane Ai Pin what the square root of 49 is.
• Brian Chen asks the Humane Ai Pin to translate some common travel phrases into Indonesian.

I liked the chic aesthetic and concept of the pin. It was occasionally helpful, like when it suggested items to pack for my recent trip to Hawaii. But as I wore it for two weeks, it presented glaring flaws. Often, its responses were off-putting, like with the bagel, or wrong, like when it said the square root of 49 was 49. Also, The Times’s photo shoot of the Ai Pin ended prematurely when the device overheated and shut down.

I wouldn’t pay $700 for this pin — let alone the $24-a-month subscription required to use its data services, including its T-Mobile cellular plan. But consider my curiosity piqued.

Imran Chaudhri and Bethany Bongiorno, Humane’s husband-and-wife founders, who worked at Apple, said updates issued through its servers would address many of the glitches I had encountered, including heat issues and shoddy math.

“It’s a journey, and we are just at the start,” Ms. Bongiorno said. “The first version is never the entirety of the vision.”

Here’s how my experience wearing the Ai Pin went.

Getting Started

Since the Ai Pin lacks a screen, users set up their accounts and other settings on Humane’s website. To unlock the device with a passcode, hold out your hand to project a green laser onto your palm. Pulling your hand outward increases the number while pulling it inward decreases it, and you select each digit by pinching two fingers on the same hand.

The laser can be used to tweak other settings, like connecting to a Wi-Fi network, and it can show a text transcription of the virtual assistant’s answers. Humane said the laser was intended to be used for no longer than nine minutes, but for me, it lasted about three before the Ai Pin complained it was too hot and shut down.

A Virtual Assistant

Beyond unlocking the pin with the laser, you’ll control the Ai Pin mostly with finger taps and your voice. The advantage of pinning a virtual assistant to my shirt became clear when I was moving around and thinking about the many things I had to do.

With one finger held down on the Ai Pin, I could summon the assistant and ask it to add tasks to my to-do list. This feature shined when I was packing for my vacation to Hawaii and adding items to my packing list, including T-shirts and swim trunks. When I asked the pin to suggest other items to pack for my trip there, it recommended a hat, sunscreen and other relevant items. Very cool.

However, the Ai Pin was less helpful in some other situations. When I was in Hawaii last week, I struggled to remember the name of a food truck near my hotel serving loco moco, so I asked the assistant to look it up for me. It said no such food truck could be found, leading me to search on my phone instead.

A Language Interpreter

An important feature on the Ai Pin is the ability to translate a conversation into another language in real time. With one finger held down on the pin, I could set a language to translate to, such as Mandarin. When I held two fingers down on the pin and spoke a phrase in English, the Ai Pin said it in Mandarin, and vice versa.

I tested this with several other languages, including Spanish, French and Indonesian. I confirmed that the interpreter was usually correct, though with converting English into Mandarin, it incorrectly translated “good morning” into “da jia hao,” which means “hello, everyone.”

Would You Look at That?

Humane is including a feature called Vision on the Ai Pin, which is labeled “beta” to signal that it is unfinished. The device uses its camera and A.I. to analyze your surroundings and give information about what you are looking at. This is what led to my quirky experience with a bagel, which only got weirder when I asked more questions.

I asked the pin how to make the bagel more delicious, and it proceeded to explain how to make bagels from scratch. Eventually, I asked the pin to come up with suggestions for sandwiches that could be made with the bagel. It generated a long list of ideas, including chickpea salad sandwiches, sloppy Joes and cucumber sandwiches with green chutney.

On vacation, I visited a botanical garden and asked the pin to identify a flower. “The flower is yellow with red stripes on the inside,” the pin said. This was correct, but it didn’t answer my question.

“It’s a Solandra maxima,” my wife said. She had taken a photo of the flower with her phone and uploaded it into a Google Images search. I felt sheepish.

Humane said it was working constantly to improve the Vision feature.

The Phone Stuff

Similar to a smartphone, the Ai Pin has its own phone number and cellular data connection to place phone calls and play music, and its camera can be used to shoot photos and videos.

Here is where the Ai Pin especially underdelivered. For something designed to make you spend less time on your phone, it isn’t better than a smartphone at any of those tasks. Photos and videos taken with the camera look poorly lit and blurry. To place a phone call, you can ask the assistant to call someone in your address book, but to dial a new number, you dictate the digits. For music, the device currently works only with Tidal, an unpopular music streaming service.

Ms. Bongiorno said the Ai Pin let her take more candid photos without a screen getting in the way. But to me, this was a disadvantage. Without a viewfinder, photos looked poorly framed.

Bottom Line

While the Ai Pin was occasionally useful and impressive, it was wrong, unhelpful or inefficient enough times to drive me back to my phone.

Gary Marcus, an A.I. entrepreneur, said the mistakes the Ai Pin made, like with the bagel, were the result of so-called hallucinations , the tendency for A.I. to guess and make things up when it can’t find the right answer. That’s a problem that remains unsolved in many A.I. technologies including ChatGPT and Google’s Gemini.

Ms. Bongiorno acknowledged that hallucinations were happening with Gemini, the technology behind the Ai Pin’s Vision feature. She added that the technology would improve rapidly with user feedback and that the company had already finessed the pin’s reaction to bagels.

Mr. Marcus said no company yet had A.I. technology that was sophisticated enough to make a virtual assistant answer questions reliably.

“It’s almost like a broken watch being right twice a day,” he said. “It’s right some of the time, but you don’t know which part of the time, and that greatly diminishes its value.”

Yet there is a kernel of an idea worth preserving. I liked having an assistant on my shirt when it was actually helpful. I’ll pin my hopes on future iterations of the product — perhaps a cheaper one that lacks a camera and a laser.

An earlier version of this article incorrectly stated that OpenAI was an investor in Humane. Sam Altman, OpenAI’s chief executive, made a personal investment.

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Brian X. Chen is the lead consumer technology writer for The Times. He reviews products and writes Tech Fix , a column about the social implications of the tech we use. More about Brian X. Chen