Self-Sacrifice and Civilization: American Everyday Heroism and the Carnegie Hero Fund Commission in the Progressive Era

Authors

Simon Wendt, Goethe-University FrankfurtFollow

Document Type

Article

Abstract

This article examines the multi-layered meanings of civilian heroism around 1900. It argues that the Progressive Era was an important transition period in the history of heroism in the United States, during which definitions of what was regarded as heroic multiplied and no longer revolved solely around military valor or political leadership. Especially everyday heroes received unprecedented media attention. They were seen by many as evidence of the continuing progress of American civilization, which appeared to allow for a peaceful coexistence of individual self-interest and social consciousness. The Carnegie Hero Fund Commission, established in 1904, contributed much to such interpretations because it deliberately challenged traditions of military heroism and institutionalized the public recognition of everyday heroism.

DOI

10.26736/hs.2024.01.13

Recommended Citation

Wendt, Simon (2024) "Self-Sacrifice and Civilization: American Everyday Heroism and the Carnegie Hero Fund Commission in the Progressive Era," Heroism Science: Vol. 9: Iss. 1, Article 12.
DOI: 10.26736/hs.2024.01.13
Available at: https://scholarship.richmond.edu/heroism-science/vol9/iss1/12