Speech #1040127605

He was a distinguished professor of history and directed various scholarly institutes devoted to the study of American history and ideas. His outstanding leadership as director of Harvards Center for the Study of Liberty in America and. later. the universitys Charles Warren Center for Studies in American History produced a remarkable body of scholarly work and countless young scholars of American history. Professor Handlin is best known for his extensive works on immigration. Early In his career. he once said. "I thought to write a history of immigrants in America. Then I discovered that the immigrants were American history." He has always maintained that America "is not merely a nation. but a teeming nation of nations." His doctoral dissertation analyzed the adjustment of immigrants in Boston. It was first published in 1941 and was republished on its fiftieth anniversary in 1991 because of the continuing public interest in his scholarship. His basic work on immigration. The "Uprooted." was first published in 1951. It won the Pulitzer Prize and to this day is considered a classic on Americas immigrant history. Professor Handlins appealing writing style allowed him to touch a generation of Americans far beyond the confines of the academic world. His observations on our history dealt movingly with the experiences of immigrants from the beginning of our history. During his brilliant career. he published nearly a book a year. and each received wide acclaim. As he notes. Americans have argued over immigration for centuries. To those concerned that todays immigrants will not adjust to America and contribute to American life. he replies that In 1850. 27 languages were spoken in Boston. Yet. these immigrants quickly learned English and joined our communities. just as immigrants are doing today. When asked last month whether he still viewed our ethnic diversity a basic strength. he responded unequivocally. "More so than ever." As we consider immigration reform today. we would do well to keep Professor Handlins insights in mind. I know my colleagues Join me in commending the contributions of this great scholar and outstanding American. I wish many happy returns as he and his family celebrate his 80th birthday this weekend.