Twentieth Century

1939

Allan Nevins Speaks at Commencement

Allan Nevins, Professor of History at Columbia University, speaks at Wheaton’s 104th Commencement. As the author of over 50 books, Nevins’ work as a historian and journalist primarily focused on the Civil War and early business history. Nevins’ speech aimed to galvanize the Class of 1939 into action, concluding with the send-off: “In short we expect you, the class of 1939 to help to modify the national character. We expect you by your outlook on life to uphold the new ideal of progress by mutual assistance in place of the old ideal of progress by hard stern competition.”