Description

Published by Wayne State University Press

Author(s)

Charles K. Hyde is professor of history at Wayne State University and author of several books, including The Dodge Brothers (Wayne State University Press, 2005) and Riding the Roller Coaster: A History of the Chrysler Corporation (Wayne State University Press, 2003).

Other Books by Charles K. Hyde: Riding the Roller Coaster: A History of the Chrysler Corporation, The Northern Lights: Lighthouse of the Upper Great Lakes, The Dodge Brothers: The Men, the Motor Cars, and the Legacy, Historic Highway Bridges of Michigan,

Reviews

“A story of rebellion and being big contributors to the development of the modern car, Storied Independent Automakers is a must for any automobile historian.”

— Midwest Book Review

“Storied Independent Automakers, by automotive historian and author Hyde is so well researched and engagingly written that the reader feels as though he or she just left a business meeting in 1922 and needs to do something about the production numbers (which are often supplied and placed in context).  The numerous black-and-white photographs and many tables are always appropriate and appreciated.  The Wayne State University Press production values are first-rate.  A very important contribution to the growing body of works on automotive history.”

— Choice

“Charles K. Hyde’s Storied Independent Automakers is the author’s latest foray into the area of automotive business history, following work on the Chrysler Corporation and the Dodge brothers.  Hyde’s prose flows effortlessly, and the book’s readability is further enhanced by a chronological narrative that features lucid introductions and conclusions, In sum, although specific brands and models are frequently described, it is people—leaders as well as members of the rank and file—who drive this history.”

— Michigan Historical Review

“Here it is, the first book devoted to the complete history of the cars we love, the Jeffrey, Nash, and American Motors.  This must read includes the most important part as well, the many people behind these great autos.  As if it all wasn’t enough, part of the book covers the very interesting story of Hudson’s history from the beginning.  The author’s attention to accuracy, interesting detail and thoroughness is evident throughout the book.  Perusing the preface gives an inkling of the in-depth effort throughout the book.  This book has no peer.”

— The Nash Times

“That the stories of Nash, Hudson, and American Motors have not yet been fully told in academic literature is a glaring oversight.  Storied Independent Automakers fills in a major gap in our knowledge.”

— David N. Lucsko, managing editor of Technology and Culture and instructor of technological history at University of Detroit–Mercy

“Charles K. Hyde has rescued American Motors and its ancestors Nash and Hudson from the dusty attic of automotive history. He brings us the engaging stories of engineers, managers, and stylists who needed all the wit and resourcefulness they could muster during their companies’ spirited, protracted, but ultimately doomed battles with Detroit’s then dominant ‘Big Three.’”

— Robert Casey, curator of transportation at The Henry Ford and author of The Model T: A Centennial History

“A scholarly but very readable history of Nash, Hudson, and American Motors. Hyde’s mastery of both business and technological history is exceptional, and his attention to biographical detail brings the story to life. This book is filled with astute assessments of management decisions, automobile designs, and marketing strategies. Hyde shows that even the losers in highly competitive industries can make important contributions.”

— Patrick Malone, professor of American civilization and urban studies and director of the Urban Studies Program, Brown University