Buying Respectability

Adam's book . . . has merit in its elucidation of the influences of European social projects upon Americans' conceptions of goals for their own society and the extent to which American implementation of philanthropic programs caused a reconsideration of the means and ends of philanthropic endeavor in Europe. His willingness to conceive of philanthropy as an expression of transatlantic ideas and cultural concerns provides a welcome addition to the historiography of philanthropy.Vol. 96 4, March 2010

-- Mark D. McGarvie * University of Richmond, Richmond, Virginia *

This sensible book examines philanthropic networks and cultures in various European and North American cities. Thomas Adam demonstrates the interdependence of seemingly contradictory trends: the intercultural transfer of reform ideas and the use of philanthropy for local prestige and status.Dec. 2010

* Urban History *

Adam has pulled together stories that are very much worth telling, and explore significant issues.

-- David C. Hammack * Case Western Reserve University *

[Adam] presents a good deal of interesting material, especially on German and North American mutual influences, and correctly positions the book as a contribution to the literature on Atlantic transnational intercultural tradition most tellingly identified by Daniel Rodgers. Adam focuses on traditional categories of philanthropic activity—cultural institutions, housing, women's roles, ethnic-religious orientation. . . . Adam focuses on what the Germans call Stiften—i.e., 'big philanthropy'. . . . — ChoiceFeb. 2010

-- S. N. Katz * Princeton University *

[T]his richly documented book offers many new insights into philanthropic activism and urban society between Jacksonianism and the Progressive era.June 2010

* American Historical Review *

[This book] is an intricately woven composition . . . Those interested in urban history, the use of philanthropy to create new institutional forms and create opportunities for larger audiences, and the ease with which ideas cross national boundaries to influence decision making in other countries will find this volume informative and thought provoking.

* Nonprofit and Voluntary Sector Quarterly *

The field of philanthropy as an avenue of social advancement into the ranks of urban elites will be a familiar theme for most readers, though Adam makes the point particularly effectively...Spring 2011

* Journal of Social Histo