John Jakes
John Jakes
Full Name and Common Aliases
John Jakes was born on December 31, 1932, in Chicago, Illinois. His family later moved to the nearby suburb of Oak Park, where he spent most of his childhood.
Birth and Death Dates
Born: December 31, 1932
Died: February 10, 2022 (aged 89)
Nationality and Profession(s)
John Jakes was an American author, best known for his historical fiction novels that explored the experiences of ordinary people during significant events in American history.
Early Life and Background
Growing up in Oak Park, Illinois, John Jakes developed a passion for reading and writing at a young age. His love for storytelling was encouraged by his parents, who instilled in him a strong sense of curiosity about the world around him. Jakes attended Marquette University on a scholarship, where he began to develop his writing skills.
Major Accomplishments
John Jakes' writing career spanned over four decades and included more than 80 novels, many of which became bestsellers. His most famous series, "American Bicentennial Series," chronicled the American Revolution from multiple perspectives, offering a fresh and engaging look at this pivotal event in U.S. history.
Notable Works or Actions
Some of Jakes' notable works include:
"Cavalry Parade" (1965): A historical novel that explores the lives of soldiers during the American Civil War.
"The Bastard" (1974): The first book in the "American Bicentennial Series," which tells the story of an illegitimate child born to a British soldier and an American woman during the Revolutionary War.
* "Ransom" (1987): A historical novel that delves into the world of pirates on the high seas.
Impact and Legacy
John Jakes' impact on American literature cannot be overstated. His ability to craft compelling stories about ordinary people in extraordinary circumstances has captivated readers for generations. Through his writing, Jakes humanized significant events in U.S. history, making them more accessible and relatable to a broader audience.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
John Jakes is widely quoted and remembered for his ability to transport readers through time and place with his vivid descriptions of historical events. His commitment to accuracy and attention to detail has earned him a reputation as one of the most respected historical fiction authors of our time. As a master storyteller, Jakes continues to inspire new generations of writers and readers alike.
His legacy extends beyond the literary world, as well. By bringing the past to life in such an engaging way, Jakes has helped people understand their own heritage and connection to American history. His writing remains a testament to his passion for storytelling and his dedication to preserving the stories that shape our understanding of ourselves and our place in the world.
As we reflect on John Jakes' remarkable life and career, we are reminded of the power of storytelling to capture our imaginations and inspire us to learn more about ourselves and our shared human experience.
Quotes by John Jakes
Davis was especially scored for allegedly favoring foreigners and Jews in his administration.
1891-1892 Here at our sea-washed, sunset gates shall stand A mighty woman with a torch, whose flame Is the imprisoned lightning, and her name Mother of exiles. 1883 The New Colossus by EMMA LAZARUS, written to raise funds to complete the Statue of Liberty.
He thought of nothing but the ardent, open warmth of this singular and passionate young woman who inspired him to love with all of his body and mind.
Remember, men. it is better to wound than to slay, since it takes time to carry an injured man to the rear and sometimes requires two of the enemy rather than one.
Reading’s the means by which the lowest man can lift himself from a state of ignorance.
This country’s drifting into serious trouble because of the clamor for simple and immediate solutions to complex problems that will take years to solve – even with total effort on both sides.
Guilty she might be. But what human being was not? There were things in her past she needn’t be ashamed of, things to be proud of; she wouldn’t surrender so meekly to a condemning judgment.