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Red Dead's History: A Video Game, an Obsession, and America's Violent Past
A pathbreaking new way to examine US history, through the lens of a bestselling video game
Red Dead Redemption and Red Dead Redemption II , set in 1911 and 1899, are the most-played American history video games since The Oregon Trail . Beloved by millions, they’ve been widely acclaimed for their realism and attention to detail. But how do they fare as recreations of history?
In this engaging book, award-winning American history professor Tore Olsson takes up that question and more. Weaving the games’ plot and characters into an exploration of American violence between 1870 and 1920, Olsson shows that it was more often disputes over capitalism and race, not just poker games and bank robberies, that fueled the bloodshed of these turbulent years. As such, this era has much to teach us today. From the West to the Deep South to Appalachia, Olsson reveals the gritty and brutal world that inspired the games, but sometimes lacks context and complexity on the digital screen. Colorful, fast-paced, and dramatic, Red Dead’s History sheds light on dark corners of the American past for gamers and history buffs alike.
Red Dead Redemption and Red Dead Redemption II , set in 1911 and 1899, are the most-played American history video games since The Oregon Trail . Beloved by millions, they’ve been widely acclaimed for their realism and attention to detail. But how do they fare as recreations of history?
In this engaging book, award-winning American history professor Tore Olsson takes up that question and more. Weaving the games’ plot and characters into an exploration of American violence between 1870 and 1920, Olsson shows that it was more often disputes over capitalism and race, not just poker games and bank robberies, that fueled the bloodshed of these turbulent years. As such, this era has much to teach us today. From the West to the Deep South to Appalachia, Olsson reveals the gritty and brutal world that inspired the games, but sometimes lacks context and complexity on the digital screen. Colorful, fast-paced, and dramatic, Red Dead’s History sheds light on dark corners of the American past for gamers and history buffs alike.
288 pages, Hardcover
First published August 6, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews
July 23, 2024
Red Dead’s History
by Tore C. Olsson has a fantastic premise and was inspired by the author’s college history class that he taught. It covered the Red Dead Redemption games and history and drew upon years of gaming experience, research, and reflections on how video games can interest individuals in serious history. The book focused on the game set in 1899 that has been touted for its realism and attention to detail. The author looks at the game and the actual U.S. history and evaluates where the game shines and where it falls short as he explores events in the West, the Deep South, and southern Appalachia that the game introduces.
While I enjoy history, I found this book somewhat slow-paced, which is not what I expected. If you are familiar with the late 19th century U.S. history, you probably won’t learn anything new. However, it did flesh out a couple of items in more detail than I had studied. I appreciated that the author covered the social, cultural, economic, and political atmosphere, as well as the violence, of the time. There are also many footnotes with sources listed.
Overall, this is a creative, well-researched, and well-organized book that ended up a little too slow for my tastes. I was expecting history to come alive and to learn something new, but that didn’t happen. However, it may work to get someone who doesn’t already like history to engage with it; especially if they enjoy the video game.
St. Martin’s Press and Tore C. Olsson provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. The publication date is currently set for August 06, 2024.
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My 2.63 rounded to 3 stars review is coming soon. Outlier rating.
While I enjoy history, I found this book somewhat slow-paced, which is not what I expected. If you are familiar with the late 19th century U.S. history, you probably won’t learn anything new. However, it did flesh out a couple of items in more detail than I had studied. I appreciated that the author covered the social, cultural, economic, and political atmosphere, as well as the violence, of the time. There are also many footnotes with sources listed.
Overall, this is a creative, well-researched, and well-organized book that ended up a little too slow for my tastes. I was expecting history to come alive and to learn something new, but that didn’t happen. However, it may work to get someone who doesn’t already like history to engage with it; especially if they enjoy the video game.
St. Martin’s Press and Tore C. Olsson provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. The publication date is currently set for August 06, 2024.
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My 2.63 rounded to 3 stars review is coming soon. Outlier rating.
June 30, 2024
Peanut butter and jelly. Cookies and milk. To these iconic pairings, let's add video games and history. Don't believe me? Then let me introduce you to Tore Olsson and his wonderful book, Red Dead's History.
For the uninitiated, there is a video game franchise with three different games, Red Dead Revolver, Red Dead Redemption, and Red Dead Redemption II. All three are fun, but Olsson wants to focus on the sprawling, intricate, and surprisingly historically accurate Red Dead Redemption II. It follows some outlaws in 1899 on various adventures. Sure, some may ask, "Brendan, I don't play video games so why should I care?" First of all, that's a terrible attitude. Second, you have not yet lived, my friend. Finally, this game let's you be an outlaw and rob banks without the real life risk of death and jail. What more could you possibly want?
Olsson's book is compulsively readable. He calls out the good and bad of the game. For historians, I think most would be shocked how much it gets right. I've played all the games and they are immersive in a way you could only dream of back in the days of the original NES, Playstation, (or if you are super old), Atari. Olsson created a college class out of his idea and you can tell he was able to distill down the most interesting aspects and put them in the book. If you are well-read in this part of history, then you probably won't learn anything new. However, Olsson has written a book targeted at the person who doesn't realize they love history....yet. It's a triumph.
(This book was provided as an advance copy by Netgalley and St. Martin's Press.)
For the uninitiated, there is a video game franchise with three different games, Red Dead Revolver, Red Dead Redemption, and Red Dead Redemption II. All three are fun, but Olsson wants to focus on the sprawling, intricate, and surprisingly historically accurate Red Dead Redemption II. It follows some outlaws in 1899 on various adventures. Sure, some may ask, "Brendan, I don't play video games so why should I care?" First of all, that's a terrible attitude. Second, you have not yet lived, my friend. Finally, this game let's you be an outlaw and rob banks without the real life risk of death and jail. What more could you possibly want?
Olsson's book is compulsively readable. He calls out the good and bad of the game. For historians, I think most would be shocked how much it gets right. I've played all the games and they are immersive in a way you could only dream of back in the days of the original NES, Playstation, (or if you are super old), Atari. Olsson created a college class out of his idea and you can tell he was able to distill down the most interesting aspects and put them in the book. If you are well-read in this part of history, then you probably won't learn anything new. However, Olsson has written a book targeted at the person who doesn't realize they love history....yet. It's a triumph.
(This book was provided as an advance copy by Netgalley and St. Martin's Press.)
March 12, 2024
Engaging and enlightening, Olsson delves into the historical context behind Red Dead Redemption 2 and gifts both historians and gamers a thoughtful look at the social and political constructs that defined the era depicted in the game. I learned lots about the history of the West, the South, and the Southern Appalachias, and the various factors that led to their modern-day depictions and stereotypes. This book scratched a particularly good itch and has me very excited to play through RDR2 again, now with historical context that will enhance my play through. I appreciate what Olssen does with this book, resembling what was likely his class’s outline, in tackling the various social issues that the game spotlights chronologically from the perspective of a fan of the game.
This was an exciting read, thank you Tore C. Olssen, St. Martin’s Press, and Netgalley.
This was an exciting read, thank you Tore C. Olssen, St. Martin’s Press, and Netgalley.
April 20, 2024
4 1/2 out of 5 stars, rounded up, of course.
The author does an excellent job in using the video game "Red Dead Redemption II" as a vehicle through which to discuss the historical context of the "harnessing of the West," as he puts it. As a student and teacher of history, I found the book erudite, with primary sources and good ol' footnotes, embedded with various scenes and characters from the video game. As the author himself found out in his classes, using a video game to drive interest, discussion, and research into an academic subject is rewarding and fun. I enjoyed the read, and I hope that I can do something like this in my classes. Kudos!
My thanks to Netgalley for the opportunity of an early read.
The author does an excellent job in using the video game "Red Dead Redemption II" as a vehicle through which to discuss the historical context of the "harnessing of the West," as he puts it. As a student and teacher of history, I found the book erudite, with primary sources and good ol' footnotes, embedded with various scenes and characters from the video game. As the author himself found out in his classes, using a video game to drive interest, discussion, and research into an academic subject is rewarding and fun. I enjoyed the read, and I hope that I can do something like this in my classes. Kudos!
My thanks to Netgalley for the opportunity of an early read.
August 8, 2024
4.5 🌟
i admittedly wanted to read this because red dead redemption ll is my favorite piece of media i have ever consumed. i think learning history is crucial, but up until i played this game, i was not interested in this era of history. however, i became intrigued soon after my first playthrough.
i have spent countless hours in the past couple years learning everything i could about red dead. including everything it got right, and what it didn't. i think tore c. olsson does a great job not shying away from the game's inaccuracies of how things really were, which, to my understanding, are few and far between.
this isn't a book about the game, but rather a book using the plot, characters, settings, etc. of red dead redemption ll as a vehicle to discuss various themes of what we know happened in the old west, the deep south, and southern appalachia. and, what a creative and engaging way to do it.
a huge bonus that roger clark, a seasoned audiobook narrator and arthur morgan himself, lends his voice to this. it made it a very easy listen.
i think this was a bit slower paced than i would have liked, but overall, i really enjoyed this and felt like i learned a lot!
i admittedly wanted to read this because red dead redemption ll is my favorite piece of media i have ever consumed. i think learning history is crucial, but up until i played this game, i was not interested in this era of history. however, i became intrigued soon after my first playthrough.
i have spent countless hours in the past couple years learning everything i could about red dead. including everything it got right, and what it didn't. i think tore c. olsson does a great job not shying away from the game's inaccuracies of how things really were, which, to my understanding, are few and far between.
this isn't a book about the game, but rather a book using the plot, characters, settings, etc. of red dead redemption ll as a vehicle to discuss various themes of what we know happened in the old west, the deep south, and southern appalachia. and, what a creative and engaging way to do it.
a huge bonus that roger clark, a seasoned audiobook narrator and arthur morgan himself, lends his voice to this. it made it a very easy listen.
i think this was a bit slower paced than i would have liked, but overall, i really enjoyed this and felt like i learned a lot!
August 11, 2024
This book was spectacular. You can tell it was written thoroughly and with great passion.
July 17, 2024
I've never played Red Dead Redemption 2, but now I have to.
January 4, 2024
I have spent more hours than I am proud to admit finding myself fully immersed in the Red Dead video game series. My introduction to the series starts all the way back in 2005, when my love of westerns led me to buy an oddball game titled Red Dead Revolver. While the world of the van der Linde gang in Red Dead Redemption and its follow-up Red Dead Redemption 2 bear little resemblance to that of Red Harlow, the technical evolution from the first entry of the series to the most recent is astounding. But despite the technical prowess of the series, it is the story, the characters, and attention to the minute details that create the surrounding environment that capture the imagination and render the gameplayer hooked from the moment they are introduced to John Marston and again later to Arthur Morgan.
So naturally when I stumbled upon this book title, I immediately had to read it. Right from the start I find a kindred spirit in Tore Olsson. Like the author, I am not a regular gamer, but have a deep love for history. Reading along in this book not only explains the historical context of the game’s setting, but also reveals why myself, and many others enjoy it so much. History itself is the greatest of storytellers, and the fact that the creators of RDR2 represented actual history so well, while creating a fictional tale, is a key driver to its massive success. In this book we find a detailed look at the expansive environment of Red Dead Redemption 2. Olsson neatly divides the book into three sections, one for each part of the country the player encounters in the game.
We begin with the west, where Olsson examines a multitude of themes and circumstances that shaped what the west would have looked like during the time period of RDR2. Olsson touches upon the backdrop and makeup of the West itself, while also sifting the cliches of Cowboys and Indians from the facts of who these people really were. He also provides insight into the real-life people and groups, like the Wild Bunch and the Pinkertons, that inspired the characters and events of RDR2.
In the next section Olsson move to the Deep South, noting that it is a rarity for a video game to use such a setting. In this section Olsson provides an in-depth look at how race, both before and after the Civil War shaped the South in 1899. I personally found the chapters examining Jim Crow and the Lost Cause to be the highlight of this book, as they provided excellent context into how and why both came into existence, what that meant for 1899 Red Dead Redemption, and what that meant for 1899, and even present day, USA. Olsson also looks into the role of immigrants in the US at this time as well as Women’s Suffrage, again both topics rarely touched upon in a video game, and hence worthy of mention by the author.
Finally, the third section studies Appalachia, and the race for mining and felling its resources, which profited few and impoverished many. I found this particularly interesting in both the dispelling of the “hillbilly” stereotype, and the circumstances behind the economic exploitation of the region and its inhabitants that have remained even today.
Throughout each section, while Olsson provides the historical backdrop, he also judges what the game got right, and what was lacking. Unsurprisingly, the developers at Rockstar Games, who famously pour over the minutia of every aspect of their game environments, get far, far more right than they do wrong. Once you play this game it is easy to see how a Professor of History like Olsson could get sucked into it and end up with hundreds of pages dedicated to the history behind the game. Likewise, if you are one of the millions of people that love the game, you will find yourself getting sucked into this book. I only wish I could register for Olsson’s class!
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It was well organized, well researched, easy to read, and included a personal touch from the author. A special thank you to NetGalley for allowing me to read it in advance. I’m of to begin yet another play-through as Arthur Morgan
So naturally when I stumbled upon this book title, I immediately had to read it. Right from the start I find a kindred spirit in Tore Olsson. Like the author, I am not a regular gamer, but have a deep love for history. Reading along in this book not only explains the historical context of the game’s setting, but also reveals why myself, and many others enjoy it so much. History itself is the greatest of storytellers, and the fact that the creators of RDR2 represented actual history so well, while creating a fictional tale, is a key driver to its massive success. In this book we find a detailed look at the expansive environment of Red Dead Redemption 2. Olsson neatly divides the book into three sections, one for each part of the country the player encounters in the game.
We begin with the west, where Olsson examines a multitude of themes and circumstances that shaped what the west would have looked like during the time period of RDR2. Olsson touches upon the backdrop and makeup of the West itself, while also sifting the cliches of Cowboys and Indians from the facts of who these people really were. He also provides insight into the real-life people and groups, like the Wild Bunch and the Pinkertons, that inspired the characters and events of RDR2.
In the next section Olsson move to the Deep South, noting that it is a rarity for a video game to use such a setting. In this section Olsson provides an in-depth look at how race, both before and after the Civil War shaped the South in 1899. I personally found the chapters examining Jim Crow and the Lost Cause to be the highlight of this book, as they provided excellent context into how and why both came into existence, what that meant for 1899 Red Dead Redemption, and what that meant for 1899, and even present day, USA. Olsson also looks into the role of immigrants in the US at this time as well as Women’s Suffrage, again both topics rarely touched upon in a video game, and hence worthy of mention by the author.
Finally, the third section studies Appalachia, and the race for mining and felling its resources, which profited few and impoverished many. I found this particularly interesting in both the dispelling of the “hillbilly” stereotype, and the circumstances behind the economic exploitation of the region and its inhabitants that have remained even today.
Throughout each section, while Olsson provides the historical backdrop, he also judges what the game got right, and what was lacking. Unsurprisingly, the developers at Rockstar Games, who famously pour over the minutia of every aspect of their game environments, get far, far more right than they do wrong. Once you play this game it is easy to see how a Professor of History like Olsson could get sucked into it and end up with hundreds of pages dedicated to the history behind the game. Likewise, if you are one of the millions of people that love the game, you will find yourself getting sucked into this book. I only wish I could register for Olsson’s class!
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It was well organized, well researched, easy to read, and included a personal touch from the author. A special thank you to NetGalley for allowing me to read it in advance. I’m of to begin yet another play-through as Arthur Morgan
August 1, 2024
This originally appeared at The Irresponsible Reader.
---
WHAT'S RED DEAD'S HISTORY ABOUT?
Like so many people around the world, the author got back into video games in 2020 as a way to fill the hours he wasn't interacting with people in real life. Like so many others, one of the games that captured his attention was Red Dead Redemption II. Unlike so many people Tore C. Olsson is an American History professor, so while he was fun doing whatever it is exactly that you do in the game*, part of his brain was looking at the history and time being depicted in the game. Because if there's one thing the game is known for, is being the most popular and influential game set in American History since The Oregon Trail from the 80s.
* It should be obvious that I don't play video games at all, not even the one in question.
Olsson went on to make headlines—and pack lecture halls—by teaching a history course based on the games, and he's now turned it into a book.
This is not a book about the game (although he talks about it a lot), it is not a point-by-point examination of the historical details (but it comes up a little), it's primarily using the game, and the things shown/talked about/alluded to in it as a launching pad to discuss themes, movements, and particulars from post-Civil War America.
The focus for the book is Red Dead Redemption II, but Red Dead Redemption comes up from time to time—but not any of the other games in the franchise. Olsson's discussion follows the geographic order and proportions of the game—starting with adventures in the West, moving to the Deep South (for the majority of the book), and then wrapping things up in Southern Appalachia.
HISTORICAL ACCURACY OF THE GAME
From the start, Olsson is clear, he's not going to get into slicing and dicing the historical accuracy of Red Dead Redemption 2, but...he can't help talking about it every now and then. He has a lot of good things to say about the history of the game (really, he wouldn't have taught a class or written a book inspired by it without that), but the biggest note seems to be—if the game had been set 20-30 years earlier than it was, it would've been better.
There are particular points here and there where he will offer specific critiques and commendations—but that's essentially the point he keeps coming back to.
Now, I don't know enough about the storylines of Red Dead Redemption or Red Dead Redemption II to know why the developers insisted that the game takes place when it does—and it certainly seems like they did have an eye for historical detail—they just missed it. It might be a game continuity thing, there might be all sorts of explanations for it. I don't know.
Now, Olsson isn't sitting there like Neil de Grasse Tyson tweeting about the scientific inaccuracies in movies, the point of the book isn't to critique the depictions of the era. But while he's talking about the various topics, he will mention them briefly. It doesn't take anything away from the game for him.
THE WEST
The first section focused on is the one that the game is best known for (and, I'll be honest, the only thing I thought the game had)—a strong take on the West. I'd like to say that I'd read a book about the subject of each chapter were Olsson to expand them, and that's true in a perfect world, but I'm not sure I really would. But I'd be willing to.
I should note that it's probably very easy to read several books on the topics of each chapter right now. And you never know, I just might.
This section covers things as nebulous as the concept of "The American West"—and when did it start dying/disappearing (if ever). Controversial topics like The Indian Wars, the amount of violence in the West (and some of the notable persons behind it), how Justice/Laws were enforced, and so on. Olsson also covers things you'd expect (especially if you actually know the game)—the construction of and use of the railways; cowboys; The Pinkertons; Butch Cassidy and The Sundance Kid.
I learned so much about all of these things—and I'm very tempted to go out in search of some of the books footnoted here.
THE DEEP SOUTH
As anyone who teaches American History—particularly in a place like Tennessee—is aware, talking about the Deep South in a post-Civil War era is a daunting task. But as that's where the bulk of the gameplay takes place, the bulk of the book gets that treatment as well.
As with the rest of the book, Olsson talks about the game's portrayal of this area and the topics, how media culture(s) depict of this area and the topics, and finally looking at the history of the area itself.
In this Part of the book, Olsson talked about such non-controversial topics as: The Paradox of Race; From Old South to New South; The White-Hooded Menace; The Tragedy of Lynching; In the Fields (largely post-War); Working on the Chain Gang; Mr. Jim Crow; The Lause Cause; New Orleans, 1899; and Votes for Women.
Obviously, there's far, far too much to say about any of these topics than he has time for in a book of this size and scope—but what's there is provocative (in a good way), thoughtful, and well-footnoted so curious readers (and there will be many after these chapters) can do some follow-up reading. Yes, that's a sentence that applies to the book as a whole, but it seems apt to emphasize it here.
SOUTHERN APPALACHIA
This part feels very timely considering how much Appalachia, Appalachia, and portrayals of the area/its residents in the media have been in the last few weeks.
Olsson only gives three chapters to this part of the book (about 11%) as much as he might be kicking himself for that now. Like with Part I: The West, he starts by discussing "The Appalachian Myth." Just what makes up this part of the country? Why has it captured the imagination the way it has? How much of what we think of when we think "Appalachia" is true now or ever was?
He then looks at the race to claim parts of it after the Civil War and how that shaped the culture and history of it. Then he spends a chapter looking at Blood Fueds—obviously focusing on the Hatfield/McCoy feud, what lies at its root—and the surprising ways it actually broke along family lines.
I was a little too tired while reading this section to get as much out of it as I think I ordinarily would've—and really should revisit it once the book is released, I think I missed some good stuff.
SO, WHAT DID I THINK ABOUT RED DEAD'S HISTORY?
I had some really good history professors and teachers over the years, so I really don't want to say that Olsson is the professor I wish I had—but really, I don't imagine many will read this book and not want to take a class or two from Olsson.
The writing is engaging, witty, and insightful. He has a real knack for making you care about something you really didn't care about just a few pages earlier—for that matter, you may not have been aware it was a thing you could care about/be interested in just a few pages earlier. I'm not going to suggest you'll agree with him all of the time, because you won't. But you'll almost certainly enjoy his perspective as well as his presentation of the facts.
I'm not really the target audience for this book—I figure that's game players who want to dive in to get more depth about the context of the game. To learn the stories behind the game's stories. Or those who now have an interest in American History and don't know where to go get more information outside a stuffy-looking textbook. Given that, I think it says a lot when I tell you that I had a great time reading this, and am more curious the game than I had been before. Not so curious to actually play it (or buy the game, a console to play it on, etc.)—but enough to talk to my son who has played through it—and has spent a lot of time doing sidequests and whatnot, and maybe even to watch some gameplay videos online. And that's more than I typically am interested in doing.
This is a great way to approach American History; it's a good way to approach this type of media (games or otherwise); and it's just an entertaining read regardless. It moves a little slower than a novel—but not much (for those who are daunted by non-fiction reads). Really, there's not much to not commend about this book. You really should check it out.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from St. Martin's Press via NetGalley—thanks to both for this.
---
WHAT'S RED DEAD'S HISTORY ABOUT?
Like so many people around the world, the author got back into video games in 2020 as a way to fill the hours he wasn't interacting with people in real life. Like so many others, one of the games that captured his attention was Red Dead Redemption II. Unlike so many people Tore C. Olsson is an American History professor, so while he was fun doing whatever it is exactly that you do in the game*, part of his brain was looking at the history and time being depicted in the game. Because if there's one thing the game is known for, is being the most popular and influential game set in American History since The Oregon Trail from the 80s.
* It should be obvious that I don't play video games at all, not even the one in question.
Olsson went on to make headlines—and pack lecture halls—by teaching a history course based on the games, and he's now turned it into a book.
This is not a book about the game (although he talks about it a lot), it is not a point-by-point examination of the historical details (but it comes up a little), it's primarily using the game, and the things shown/talked about/alluded to in it as a launching pad to discuss themes, movements, and particulars from post-Civil War America.
The focus for the book is Red Dead Redemption II, but Red Dead Redemption comes up from time to time—but not any of the other games in the franchise. Olsson's discussion follows the geographic order and proportions of the game—starting with adventures in the West, moving to the Deep South (for the majority of the book), and then wrapping things up in Southern Appalachia.
HISTORICAL ACCURACY OF THE GAME
From the start, Olsson is clear, he's not going to get into slicing and dicing the historical accuracy of Red Dead Redemption 2, but...he can't help talking about it every now and then. He has a lot of good things to say about the history of the game (really, he wouldn't have taught a class or written a book inspired by it without that), but the biggest note seems to be—if the game had been set 20-30 years earlier than it was, it would've been better.
There are particular points here and there where he will offer specific critiques and commendations—but that's essentially the point he keeps coming back to.
Now, I don't know enough about the storylines of Red Dead Redemption or Red Dead Redemption II to know why the developers insisted that the game takes place when it does—and it certainly seems like they did have an eye for historical detail—they just missed it. It might be a game continuity thing, there might be all sorts of explanations for it. I don't know.
Now, Olsson isn't sitting there like Neil de Grasse Tyson tweeting about the scientific inaccuracies in movies, the point of the book isn't to critique the depictions of the era. But while he's talking about the various topics, he will mention them briefly. It doesn't take anything away from the game for him.
THE WEST
The first section focused on is the one that the game is best known for (and, I'll be honest, the only thing I thought the game had)—a strong take on the West. I'd like to say that I'd read a book about the subject of each chapter were Olsson to expand them, and that's true in a perfect world, but I'm not sure I really would. But I'd be willing to.
I should note that it's probably very easy to read several books on the topics of each chapter right now. And you never know, I just might.
This section covers things as nebulous as the concept of "The American West"—and when did it start dying/disappearing (if ever). Controversial topics like The Indian Wars, the amount of violence in the West (and some of the notable persons behind it), how Justice/Laws were enforced, and so on. Olsson also covers things you'd expect (especially if you actually know the game)—the construction of and use of the railways; cowboys; The Pinkertons; Butch Cassidy and The Sundance Kid.
I learned so much about all of these things—and I'm very tempted to go out in search of some of the books footnoted here.
THE DEEP SOUTH
As anyone who teaches American History—particularly in a place like Tennessee—is aware, talking about the Deep South in a post-Civil War era is a daunting task. But as that's where the bulk of the gameplay takes place, the bulk of the book gets that treatment as well.
As with the rest of the book, Olsson talks about the game's portrayal of this area and the topics, how media culture(s) depict of this area and the topics, and finally looking at the history of the area itself.
In this Part of the book, Olsson talked about such non-controversial topics as: The Paradox of Race; From Old South to New South; The White-Hooded Menace; The Tragedy of Lynching; In the Fields (largely post-War); Working on the Chain Gang; Mr. Jim Crow; The Lause Cause; New Orleans, 1899; and Votes for Women.
Obviously, there's far, far too much to say about any of these topics than he has time for in a book of this size and scope—but what's there is provocative (in a good way), thoughtful, and well-footnoted so curious readers (and there will be many after these chapters) can do some follow-up reading. Yes, that's a sentence that applies to the book as a whole, but it seems apt to emphasize it here.
SOUTHERN APPALACHIA
This part feels very timely considering how much Appalachia, Appalachia, and portrayals of the area/its residents in the media have been in the last few weeks.
Olsson only gives three chapters to this part of the book (about 11%) as much as he might be kicking himself for that now. Like with Part I: The West, he starts by discussing "The Appalachian Myth." Just what makes up this part of the country? Why has it captured the imagination the way it has? How much of what we think of when we think "Appalachia" is true now or ever was?
He then looks at the race to claim parts of it after the Civil War and how that shaped the culture and history of it. Then he spends a chapter looking at Blood Fueds—obviously focusing on the Hatfield/McCoy feud, what lies at its root—and the surprising ways it actually broke along family lines.
I was a little too tired while reading this section to get as much out of it as I think I ordinarily would've—and really should revisit it once the book is released, I think I missed some good stuff.
SO, WHAT DID I THINK ABOUT RED DEAD'S HISTORY?
I had some really good history professors and teachers over the years, so I really don't want to say that Olsson is the professor I wish I had—but really, I don't imagine many will read this book and not want to take a class or two from Olsson.
The writing is engaging, witty, and insightful. He has a real knack for making you care about something you really didn't care about just a few pages earlier—for that matter, you may not have been aware it was a thing you could care about/be interested in just a few pages earlier. I'm not going to suggest you'll agree with him all of the time, because you won't. But you'll almost certainly enjoy his perspective as well as his presentation of the facts.
I'm not really the target audience for this book—I figure that's game players who want to dive in to get more depth about the context of the game. To learn the stories behind the game's stories. Or those who now have an interest in American History and don't know where to go get more information outside a stuffy-looking textbook. Given that, I think it says a lot when I tell you that I had a great time reading this, and am more curious the game than I had been before. Not so curious to actually play it (or buy the game, a console to play it on, etc.)—but enough to talk to my son who has played through it—and has spent a lot of time doing sidequests and whatnot, and maybe even to watch some gameplay videos online. And that's more than I typically am interested in doing.
This is a great way to approach American History; it's a good way to approach this type of media (games or otherwise); and it's just an entertaining read regardless. It moves a little slower than a novel—but not much (for those who are daunted by non-fiction reads). Really, there's not much to not commend about this book. You really should check it out.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from St. Martin's Press via NetGalley—thanks to both for this.
May 10, 2024
This is a very good book aimed at the general reader on the major topics of the American West as told through the perspective of the video game series "Red Dead Redemption." The chapters are largely grouped around themes that make up the history of the West, for example interaction between Natives and Settlers, rail expansion and frequency of violence. The book is amply footnoted and contains an extensive bibliography. I was pleasantly surprised to see a number of books I had used in my studies (which began in the 1970s) as well as a reference to my first college history professor, Richard Maxwell Brown, whose focus of study was violence in American history.
The author does a good job of showing where the gameplay of the video game differs in time and place from the historical record. Some scenarios in the game did not fit with what was going on in the actual history, for example battles with Natives that extended into the early 20th century.
The author makes an effort to praise the developers of the video games for hewing as closely to actual history as they do. It's encouraging in our current video-obsessed world to see this occurring. I recall a visit to the Indianapolis Children's Museum in the 1980s where the computer game "Oregon Trail" was supplementing an exhibit on westward expansion. Those who have played this game will know that whatever the historical shortcomings of the game it often did encourage the players to learn more about the times. I could see that in the groups of children who after a turn on the computer actively entered the rest of the exhibit with enthusiasm.
This book does a good job of doing that as well and expanding a player's knowledge. I would hope that all players of this video game series could have a companion copy of this book to supplement what they experience online. It's also a valuable reference for those wishing to learn more of the actual history of the American West.
The author does a good job of showing where the gameplay of the video game differs in time and place from the historical record. Some scenarios in the game did not fit with what was going on in the actual history, for example battles with Natives that extended into the early 20th century.
The author makes an effort to praise the developers of the video games for hewing as closely to actual history as they do. It's encouraging in our current video-obsessed world to see this occurring. I recall a visit to the Indianapolis Children's Museum in the 1980s where the computer game "Oregon Trail" was supplementing an exhibit on westward expansion. Those who have played this game will know that whatever the historical shortcomings of the game it often did encourage the players to learn more about the times. I could see that in the groups of children who after a turn on the computer actively entered the rest of the exhibit with enthusiasm.
This book does a good job of doing that as well and expanding a player's knowledge. I would hope that all players of this video game series could have a companion copy of this book to supplement what they experience online. It's also a valuable reference for those wishing to learn more of the actual history of the American West.
August 26, 2024
I never found 19th-century Southern and Western history interesting, but learning about it through the lens of one of my favorite video games was fantastic. Who knew so many weird stereotypes began in this period, or that our perception of Reconstruction was largely due to rich white politicians who wanted to maintain control over everything!
This book made me realize that the history I learned in grade school was whitewashed and mediocre, uh oh! While this book was primarily about America's violent past, I'd be interested to learn more in the future.
This book made me realize that the history I learned in grade school was whitewashed and mediocre, uh oh! While this book was primarily about America's violent past, I'd be interested to learn more in the future.
August 22, 2024
This book has very basic history lessons that most readers will be familiar with, and very little comparison with the game itself. It tries to be progressive with its retelling but comes off as a woke joke. This is a cash grab for admirers of the Red Dead Redemption franchise that was written — and well researched — by Dan Houser and Rupert Humphries (and their creative team). The author appears to know little to nothing about the creative minds behind the content he’s discussing. Avoid this book and buy some of the more popular books on American history.
January 7, 2024
Very interesting and creative approach to the history of the Old West. Seeing American history through the eyes of Red Dead Redemption was fascinating and I would definitely recommend this to other Old West buffs,
January 25, 2024
5 Out of 5 Stars
In 2021, IGN put Red Dead Redemption II as number 8 in the best 100 video games of all time. This popular 2018 game is the only history-based game to make it into the top 100. Historian Tore C. Olsson examines the setting and contents of the game and compares it to actual historical events to show how well the game does in accuracy.
From the West to the Deep South and finally to Southern Appalachia, Red Dead’s History: A Video Game, An Obsession, and America’s Violent Past explores each setting and examines how the video game presents it and how the real locations looked historically. Olsson argues that violence (known as the most toxic and problematic part of video games) is a way to begin comprehending the crucial features of modern American history.
Olsson’s exploration of Red Dead Redemption II is thorough and covers a lot of ground. He examines large swaths of the US, and although he only looks at a few decades of history, there is a tremendous amount of material to cover. Because of this, some areas do not receive the same amount of attention. Part Three of the book, Southern Appalachia, does not receive the same detail as the West and the Deep South. While this could be for numerous reasons, it leaves the reader wanting more.
Even though the book has some cons, the writing, analysis, and other aspects are well done. Part One is the most engaging section of the book. It focuses on the West and stands out amongst the other parts because it closely resembles how Red Dead Redemption II is advertised: as a Western. Another excellent part of the book is how well the thesis carries through the chapters. Violence in the game and American history is the star of the work. Each chapter compares the violence in the game to violence in history and discusses how well the game shows historical events. It also explores how audiences today would handle the subject matter. Olsson speculates that some iconography or specific events are excluded from Red Dead Redemption II because it might alienate audiences.
Overall, this book is very well-written. It provides a more mainstream way to examine modern American history. I highly recommend this book. Whether you are a fan of Red Dead Redemption II or an American history fanatic, this book is a great choice. It does an excellent job showing late nineteenth-century American history and highlights aspects of that history that many people may not be aware of. It also contributes to the larger histography through modern-day stereotypes that started during the turn of the twentieth century. It is time that historians start looking more closely at pop culture media and how it lets more people learn about history, even if it is just an opening to learning more.
In 2021, IGN put Red Dead Redemption II as number 8 in the best 100 video games of all time. This popular 2018 game is the only history-based game to make it into the top 100. Historian Tore C. Olsson examines the setting and contents of the game and compares it to actual historical events to show how well the game does in accuracy.
From the West to the Deep South and finally to Southern Appalachia, Red Dead’s History: A Video Game, An Obsession, and America’s Violent Past explores each setting and examines how the video game presents it and how the real locations looked historically. Olsson argues that violence (known as the most toxic and problematic part of video games) is a way to begin comprehending the crucial features of modern American history.
Olsson’s exploration of Red Dead Redemption II is thorough and covers a lot of ground. He examines large swaths of the US, and although he only looks at a few decades of history, there is a tremendous amount of material to cover. Because of this, some areas do not receive the same amount of attention. Part Three of the book, Southern Appalachia, does not receive the same detail as the West and the Deep South. While this could be for numerous reasons, it leaves the reader wanting more.
Even though the book has some cons, the writing, analysis, and other aspects are well done. Part One is the most engaging section of the book. It focuses on the West and stands out amongst the other parts because it closely resembles how Red Dead Redemption II is advertised: as a Western. Another excellent part of the book is how well the thesis carries through the chapters. Violence in the game and American history is the star of the work. Each chapter compares the violence in the game to violence in history and discusses how well the game shows historical events. It also explores how audiences today would handle the subject matter. Olsson speculates that some iconography or specific events are excluded from Red Dead Redemption II because it might alienate audiences.
Overall, this book is very well-written. It provides a more mainstream way to examine modern American history. I highly recommend this book. Whether you are a fan of Red Dead Redemption II or an American history fanatic, this book is a great choice. It does an excellent job showing late nineteenth-century American history and highlights aspects of that history that many people may not be aware of. It also contributes to the larger histography through modern-day stereotypes that started during the turn of the twentieth century. It is time that historians start looking more closely at pop culture media and how it lets more people learn about history, even if it is just an opening to learning more.
July 27, 2024
Have you ever started a book thinking it was one thing, and then finding out its completely different? Yep, that just happened to me.
To be fair, I had no idea that Red Dead [Revolver, Redeption, and Redemption 2] was a video game [as I don't play video games and never have], so I'm actually not really sure what I thought this book was about, but a book about a video game and its historically accurate narrative was not it.
Thankfully, this is a compulsively readable [and amazing] book, just what a history-nerd like me loves - a book filled with history that is also played out within the game of Red Dead Redemption 2 and how they work together [which was fascinating]. And it is some amazing history. The author breaks down each section of the game and what the history that is presented means. Much of the history talked about I already knew [thogh a refresher is always a good thing], but there were definitely thing I did NOT know [the Southern Appalachians part was fascinating, eye-opening and VERY illuminating and I learned a lot], and I reveled in the learning.
A truly excellent, well-written and researched book, that I truly enjoyed every second of [wellllll, maybe not the video game parts that I just didn't understand - I am just so clueless there], and even though it was not what I expected, it was a very worthwhile read.
Roger Clark gives voice to a major character in the game [Arthur I think?] and he now narrated this book, and does an excellent job at it. He truly brings the history to life, and helps to engage the listener to the very history he is speaking. For the full experience [whether you play the game or not], I highly recommend the audiobook and his excellent performance.
I was asked to read/review this book by the publisher St. Martin's Press, and I would like to thank them, Tore C. Olsson, Roger Clark - Narrator, and Macmillan Audio for providing the eBook and audiobook ARC's in exchange for an honest review.
To be fair, I had no idea that Red Dead [Revolver, Redeption, and Redemption 2] was a video game [as I don't play video games and never have], so I'm actually not really sure what I thought this book was about, but a book about a video game and its historically accurate narrative was not it.
Thankfully, this is a compulsively readable [and amazing] book, just what a history-nerd like me loves - a book filled with history that is also played out within the game of Red Dead Redemption 2 and how they work together [which was fascinating]. And it is some amazing history. The author breaks down each section of the game and what the history that is presented means. Much of the history talked about I already knew [thogh a refresher is always a good thing], but there were definitely thing I did NOT know [the Southern Appalachians part was fascinating, eye-opening and VERY illuminating and I learned a lot], and I reveled in the learning.
A truly excellent, well-written and researched book, that I truly enjoyed every second of [wellllll, maybe not the video game parts that I just didn't understand - I am just so clueless there], and even though it was not what I expected, it was a very worthwhile read.
Roger Clark gives voice to a major character in the game [Arthur I think?] and he now narrated this book, and does an excellent job at it. He truly brings the history to life, and helps to engage the listener to the very history he is speaking. For the full experience [whether you play the game or not], I highly recommend the audiobook and his excellent performance.
I was asked to read/review this book by the publisher St. Martin's Press, and I would like to thank them, Tore C. Olsson, Roger Clark - Narrator, and Macmillan Audio for providing the eBook and audiobook ARC's in exchange for an honest review.
August 6, 2024
Thanks to NETGALLEY and St. Martin's Press for eARC
More books like this, please, using media mediums as catalysts into history! This was done SO well, it's fun, engaging, informative, important, well-loved, thoroughly researched...such a great book. It's told in three parts with an intro and epilogue, and covers 1865-1920 + end of Civil War. Tore writes like a teacher sometimes, which I found charming and even comforting. My only complaint, and yes, I have only one, is that my eARC didn't have the photographs! I wasn't even aware there were any until the author referenced it, and seeing a credits section for said images. Alas. I plan on purchasing this book anyway, but it would have been better to see the things Olsson brought attention to.
Top Ten of 2024 entry, easily.
In its twenty chapters, we will use the fictional characters and plot of the Red Dead Redemption games to embark on an exploration of the violent social conflicts that convulsed the United States between 1865 and 1920. Ultimately, the book is less a verdict on the “accuracy” of the games and more a journey through the historical worlds that they frequently allude to— but rarely flesh out.
More books like this, please, using media mediums as catalysts into history! This was done SO well, it's fun, engaging, informative, important, well-loved, thoroughly researched...such a great book. It's told in three parts with an intro and epilogue, and covers 1865-1920 + end of Civil War. Tore writes like a teacher sometimes, which I found charming and even comforting. My only complaint, and yes, I have only one, is that my eARC didn't have the photographs! I wasn't even aware there were any until the author referenced it, and seeing a credits section for said images. Alas. I plan on purchasing this book anyway, but it would have been better to see the things Olsson brought attention to.
Top Ten of 2024 entry, easily.
August 9, 2024
Red Dead's History is an fascinating, eye-opening look at a changing America as portrayed in the video game Red Dead Redemption II. Professor Tore C. Olsson presents easily digestible chapters about the regions and issues encountered in the game and teases out what the game gets right and wrong. And it gets a lot of if right.
I imagine that the book's chapters are structured similarly to how Olsson organized the course he taught on the subject, as each chapter feels like a neatly packed lecture. Pair this with the dulcet tones of Roger Clark (the voice actor of the main character from Red Dead Redemption II), and you have a wonderful and informative listening experience.
One quick side bar: The subtitle of the book might lead one to think that the book is about the development or cultural impact of the video game. This book is primarily focused on American history and uses the video game as a lens or entry point. Fans of the game will gain a deeper appreciation of the context of the story, but no behind the scenes of the game.
Thank you NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for a free copy of this audiobook. This was one of my most anticipated audiobooks of the year, and this review reflects my honest opinions.
I imagine that the book's chapters are structured similarly to how Olsson organized the course he taught on the subject, as each chapter feels like a neatly packed lecture. Pair this with the dulcet tones of Roger Clark (the voice actor of the main character from Red Dead Redemption II), and you have a wonderful and informative listening experience.
One quick side bar: The subtitle of the book might lead one to think that the book is about the development or cultural impact of the video game. This book is primarily focused on American history and uses the video game as a lens or entry point. Fans of the game will gain a deeper appreciation of the context of the story, but no behind the scenes of the game.
Thank you NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for a free copy of this audiobook. This was one of my most anticipated audiobooks of the year, and this review reflects my honest opinions.
August 19, 2024
Red Dead Redemption II is my favourite video game and so when I saw this book that was going to explore the history behind the game I was excited to read it. And I was not disappointed. The author does a fantastic job of providing real historical context behind the fictional portrayal of 1890s America in the game. This book will be of great interest to anyone who has a love of Red Dead, but is also a great history of late 19th century America and can be enjoyed by anyone.
The audiobook is narrated by Roger Clark, who portrayed Arthur Morgan in Red Dead II. This made it an incredibly enjoyable listening experience.
The audiobook is narrated by Roger Clark, who portrayed Arthur Morgan in Red Dead II. This made it an incredibly enjoyable listening experience.
August 7, 2024
Red Dead‘s History by Tore .C. Olsson, this is not only a great book about what made the Wild West, so wild but about Red Dead and Red Dead Redemption the video games. The book talks about why the author started a college curriculum on the games the different parts the games have played in popular social media like for example the cowboy playing red dead redemption, it’s popularity on Read It. the actual racial make up in the west and much much more. I really truly enjoyed this book as much as one can enjoy a book about their favorite subject I loved it! I do think when shooting an unarmed man however you should get honor points taken away because no self-respecting gunslinger in the west would be proud of shooting a man without a gun. Love this book. #NetGalley,#St. Martin‘sPress, #toreCOlsson,#RedDead’sHistory,
August 21, 2024
Fun and engaging way to connect history and the red dead redemption II video game. I kept asking myself throughout gameplay what was going on during this time in America and this book did an excellent job filling in those details while also reminding the reader that the intent of the book isn’t to poke holes in the video games’s accuracy of historical events during that time but instead highlight how we can tie history to certain aspects of the game!
August 27, 2024
I admit I was a little skeptical going in to this book. Though I love RDR2 and history, and spent many hours playing with my friends and getting into discussions about its historical detail and the responsibility media has to depictions of the past, I'm all too aware of the kinds of controversies that can float in and around the fandom for the game (it's why I avoid engaging with it). I really needn't have worried. This was an incredibly cogent overview of US history during the 1800s, and I'd recommend it to anyone seeking a solid primer on the era to supplement playing the game!
August 13, 2024
Super good history using red dead as a lense to look at our history. Very well done very enjoyable
April 12, 2024
Well worth the read, as someone who does not often reach for historical non-fiction but found myself drawn to this book.
The story enlightened the era that defined Red Dead, and gave a unique insight on both how the West shaped the game and where the developers may have strayed from historical accuracy.
Both an informative and engaging read, I found the social and political narratives of the West was easy to digest through this author’s writing and comparisons to this modern day game.
Thank you Net Galley and St. Martin’s Press for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The story enlightened the era that defined Red Dead, and gave a unique insight on both how the West shaped the game and where the developers may have strayed from historical accuracy.
Both an informative and engaging read, I found the social and political narratives of the West was easy to digest through this author’s writing and comparisons to this modern day game.
Thank you Net Galley and St. Martin’s Press for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 3, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley and the author for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review!
I'll start off by saying I have never played RDR2 on story mode, but my cat and I thoroughly enjoyed watching my husband play and I love all things western, so I was pumped that this book was coming out!
I started this book with no expectations, but I was hooked quickly by all of the early America history that I never learned in school and how it was changed and incorporated in to the game. It is a well written and well researched book by a college professor who has a passion for gaming. The author seems to have a bias against the white race in some areas of the book and how whites took over many of the areas owned by the Indians. But people of all races have taken over areas and made the population assimilate to their customs all throughout history- it's not just white people. So that was something I wasn't really impressed by with this book. That is my only complaint though. I truly learned so much about American history and inspired me to do even more learning about it. I really enjoyed this book and I've already recommended it to all our friends who enjoy the game!
I'll start off by saying I have never played RDR2 on story mode, but my cat and I thoroughly enjoyed watching my husband play and I love all things western, so I was pumped that this book was coming out!
I started this book with no expectations, but I was hooked quickly by all of the early America history that I never learned in school and how it was changed and incorporated in to the game. It is a well written and well researched book by a college professor who has a passion for gaming. The author seems to have a bias against the white race in some areas of the book and how whites took over many of the areas owned by the Indians. But people of all races have taken over areas and made the population assimilate to their customs all throughout history- it's not just white people. So that was something I wasn't really impressed by with this book. That is my only complaint though. I truly learned so much about American history and inspired me to do even more learning about it. I really enjoyed this book and I've already recommended it to all our friends who enjoy the game!
January 5, 2024
Red Dead’s History by Tore C Olsson
Summary:
Red Dead Redemption and Red Dead Redemption II, set in 1911 and 1899, are the most-played American history video games since The Oregon Trail. Beloved by millions, they’ve been widely acclaimed for their realism and attention to detail. But how do they fare as recreations of history?
In this engaging book, award-winning American history professor Tore Olsson takes up that question and more. Weaving the games’ plot and characters into an exploration of American violence between 1870 and 1920, Olsson shows that it was more often disputes over capitalism and race, not just poker games and bank robberies, that fueled the bloodshed of these turbulent years. As such, this era has much to teach us today. From the West to the Deep South to Appalachia, Olsson reveals the gritty and brutal world that inspired the games, but sometimes lacks context and complexity on the digital screen. Colorful, fast-paced, and dramatic, Red Dead’s History sheds light on dark corners of the American past for gamers and history buffs alike.
Review -5-star
As someone who loves history and gaming and is very much into the game of Red Dead, this was a fun read, I loved the history lesson I got and I was correct in my thinking that the game was out of the time frame they are trying to portray. I wasn’t sure what to expect from the book and was pleasantly surprised at how the author broke it down. Even knowing that the game is out of the time frame they wanted to portray I will still enjoy the game and continue to play it. I enjoyed the writing style of this author and would love to read more.
I received this book for my honest review.
Summary:
Red Dead Redemption and Red Dead Redemption II, set in 1911 and 1899, are the most-played American history video games since The Oregon Trail. Beloved by millions, they’ve been widely acclaimed for their realism and attention to detail. But how do they fare as recreations of history?
In this engaging book, award-winning American history professor Tore Olsson takes up that question and more. Weaving the games’ plot and characters into an exploration of American violence between 1870 and 1920, Olsson shows that it was more often disputes over capitalism and race, not just poker games and bank robberies, that fueled the bloodshed of these turbulent years. As such, this era has much to teach us today. From the West to the Deep South to Appalachia, Olsson reveals the gritty and brutal world that inspired the games, but sometimes lacks context and complexity on the digital screen. Colorful, fast-paced, and dramatic, Red Dead’s History sheds light on dark corners of the American past for gamers and history buffs alike.
Review -5-star
As someone who loves history and gaming and is very much into the game of Red Dead, this was a fun read, I loved the history lesson I got and I was correct in my thinking that the game was out of the time frame they are trying to portray. I wasn’t sure what to expect from the book and was pleasantly surprised at how the author broke it down. Even knowing that the game is out of the time frame they wanted to portray I will still enjoy the game and continue to play it. I enjoyed the writing style of this author and would love to read more.
I received this book for my honest review.
August 6, 2024
Red Dead's History is US History told through the lens of a bestselling video game
Red Dead Redemption and Red Dead Redemption II , set in 1911 and 1899, are the most-played American history video games since The Oregon Trail. Beloved by millions, they’ve been widely acclaimed for their realism and attention to detail. But how do they fare as recreations of history? The author, who is a history professor and based a class on the same idea, uses the storyline and themes of the game to explore the landscape of American violence between 1870 and 1920.
I have always loved history. I also love video games though I've never played Red Dead Redemption. I was very excited to pick up this book for those reasons and because of the unique way of relating US history. This book far exceeded my expectations. It made the history lover in me very happy. I learned so many things I wish I had known before. US history is vast and there is so much to learn. Much of what we have been taught is wrong or incomplete.
This book is exciting to read. The author's writing style is so good, he makes learning a page turning experience. I wish I could take his class because this idea for Red Dead's History is unique and fun. He also does a good job making you want to play the video game.
Read this book. It's a top read of the year for me.
Thanks to Netgalley for the chance to read!
Red Dead Redemption and Red Dead Redemption II , set in 1911 and 1899, are the most-played American history video games since The Oregon Trail. Beloved by millions, they’ve been widely acclaimed for their realism and attention to detail. But how do they fare as recreations of history? The author, who is a history professor and based a class on the same idea, uses the storyline and themes of the game to explore the landscape of American violence between 1870 and 1920.
I have always loved history. I also love video games though I've never played Red Dead Redemption. I was very excited to pick up this book for those reasons and because of the unique way of relating US history. This book far exceeded my expectations. It made the history lover in me very happy. I learned so many things I wish I had known before. US history is vast and there is so much to learn. Much of what we have been taught is wrong or incomplete.
This book is exciting to read. The author's writing style is so good, he makes learning a page turning experience. I wish I could take his class because this idea for Red Dead's History is unique and fun. He also does a good job making you want to play the video game.
Read this book. It's a top read of the year for me.
Thanks to Netgalley for the chance to read!
December 17, 2023
A good way to introduce the history of 'the west' to those who might not normally read history. Essentially, using the videogame as an educational tool, while also picking apart the plot of the game for historical accuracy. Well worth a read.
June 3, 2024
My thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press an advance copy of this history book that looks at American history as portrayed through a popular computer game, one that has probably had more influence and taught people more than schools whose books are being sanitized so as not to upset people who don't want to know the truth.
I was blessed with parents who never thought of video games as something that would rot our minds, or make us serial killers. My parents thought of it as a diversion, a reward for when school was done, the yard was mowed, a bed messily made. From Atari I moved up the ranks to the Commodore 64, where the games became a little more thoughtful, setting the way for PC games that included history as part of the gameplay. One never really thought about learning about world history through Sid Meir's Pirates, but there was a little bit of historical accuracy. And a whole lot wrong. Games though have progressed on one of the most popular, violent, controversial, and yet addictively interesting has been Red Dead Redemption II. A game that touts itself as a Western, but is something much more. As historian, educator and writer Tore C. Olsson noticed when he first started playing. In Red Dead's History: A Video Game, an Obsession, and America's Violent Past discusses the history of America as presented in the game, how much the game got right, got badly wrong, and explores the importance of many of these moments of gameplay, and how this history still reverberates today.
COVID lockdown has been quite the muse for many books, and the this one is no exception. Left with no college courses to teach Tore C. Olsson bought himself a new PC game system, beginning with the hottest game at the time. Red Dead Redemption II. Olsson was absorbed by the story, but was impressed more by what the game got right about American history, even though the eras might be off. Olsson was so impressed that he began to teach a class on the game as history for his college course. Olsson looks at the game through the adventures of the characters, and writes about what the game presents, what they get right and wrong. Olsson looks at the role of women, especially the question of voting, which makes up a minor adventure. The role of cowboys is discussed, with a little myth breaking here, pointing out that many cowboys were minorities, something omitted in many histories and popular westerns. As the game is a little violent, meaning a lot violent the culture of guns makes up a chapter, how even back than there were lovers of gun porn, and the ease in which a gun could solve problems. What was a surprise was the discussion on the railroads, labor issues, and strike busting Pinkertons, something that is not much discussed in books, as that might be a little to Commie Red for kids to learn about.
One of the best primer's I have read on American history that I have read. Not only does Olsson write well about the game, Olsson has a very nice writing style that makes the real history not only interesting but real. This book is probably better than the books I had in history class, and that was before the plans to take over school boards and make people worker drones of patriotism began. One can learn the real story about the growth of railroads, and the large government subsidies that railroad magnates received, all while cheating workers. Olsson is also quick to point out the wrong things, the era seems off, the racism about the people who dwell in the Appalachians, and many other things.
Fans of the game will enjoy this, and hopefully learn quite a bit. I did not expect such a well written, and presented history, especially based on a shoot-em-up. This book exceeded my expectations, and I will be pushing this on a lot of people. History effects us all, and many of the issues that we are dealing with started about these times. Ignorance solves nothing, nor does one side controlling the issue. A fantastic book for gamers, teachers, parents, and people who love well-written history.
I was blessed with parents who never thought of video games as something that would rot our minds, or make us serial killers. My parents thought of it as a diversion, a reward for when school was done, the yard was mowed, a bed messily made. From Atari I moved up the ranks to the Commodore 64, where the games became a little more thoughtful, setting the way for PC games that included history as part of the gameplay. One never really thought about learning about world history through Sid Meir's Pirates, but there was a little bit of historical accuracy. And a whole lot wrong. Games though have progressed on one of the most popular, violent, controversial, and yet addictively interesting has been Red Dead Redemption II. A game that touts itself as a Western, but is something much more. As historian, educator and writer Tore C. Olsson noticed when he first started playing. In Red Dead's History: A Video Game, an Obsession, and America's Violent Past discusses the history of America as presented in the game, how much the game got right, got badly wrong, and explores the importance of many of these moments of gameplay, and how this history still reverberates today.
COVID lockdown has been quite the muse for many books, and the this one is no exception. Left with no college courses to teach Tore C. Olsson bought himself a new PC game system, beginning with the hottest game at the time. Red Dead Redemption II. Olsson was absorbed by the story, but was impressed more by what the game got right about American history, even though the eras might be off. Olsson was so impressed that he began to teach a class on the game as history for his college course. Olsson looks at the game through the adventures of the characters, and writes about what the game presents, what they get right and wrong. Olsson looks at the role of women, especially the question of voting, which makes up a minor adventure. The role of cowboys is discussed, with a little myth breaking here, pointing out that many cowboys were minorities, something omitted in many histories and popular westerns. As the game is a little violent, meaning a lot violent the culture of guns makes up a chapter, how even back than there were lovers of gun porn, and the ease in which a gun could solve problems. What was a surprise was the discussion on the railroads, labor issues, and strike busting Pinkertons, something that is not much discussed in books, as that might be a little to Commie Red for kids to learn about.
One of the best primer's I have read on American history that I have read. Not only does Olsson write well about the game, Olsson has a very nice writing style that makes the real history not only interesting but real. This book is probably better than the books I had in history class, and that was before the plans to take over school boards and make people worker drones of patriotism began. One can learn the real story about the growth of railroads, and the large government subsidies that railroad magnates received, all while cheating workers. Olsson is also quick to point out the wrong things, the era seems off, the racism about the people who dwell in the Appalachians, and many other things.
Fans of the game will enjoy this, and hopefully learn quite a bit. I did not expect such a well written, and presented history, especially based on a shoot-em-up. This book exceeded my expectations, and I will be pushing this on a lot of people. History effects us all, and many of the issues that we are dealing with started about these times. Ignorance solves nothing, nor does one side controlling the issue. A fantastic book for gamers, teachers, parents, and people who love well-written history.
August 5, 2024
Thanks to the author and publisher for providing me with an Advanced Reading Copy of this new book (August 2024). No matter how I acquire a title, I always give an honest review. Rarely do I give a negative review because I will not read a book if the author, title and/or subject do not interest me.
Up front, I want to say that I am not a “gamer”, electronic or otherwise. I had not heard of the game PROFESSOR TORE OLSSON (University of Tennessee, History professor) dissects in his book RED DEAD’S HISTORY. On the other hand, “history” is my “game”, from my college major into my long-time taste in reading. As I started reading this book, I thought to myself “Why am I reading this?” As I got into the meat of the subject, I found it to be very interesting and entertaining. Will I try the game? No! Am I glad I read the book? A resounding “Yes”!
Professor Olsson compares the real history with the history presented in the very popular games. There are three versions of Red Dead: Red Dead’s Revolver, Red Dead’s Redemption and Red Dead’s Redemption 2. They take place in the American West and South of the mid-1860s to the early years of the 20th Century. The main character of the first story (Red Dead’s Revolver) mostly disappears as a character in the two Redemption titles.
The storyline follows the mythical “Dutch van der Linde’s” outlaw band as it robs trains, rustles cattle and generally commits mayhem throughout the Southern and Western United States of the 19th Century and the first decade of the 20th . Arthur Morgan is the primary character and is Dutch van der Linde’s top lieutenant in the gang. On the other side of the law is the famous (or after reading this book, the infamous) Pinkerton National Detective Agency, a real agency founded in 1855 in Chicago by Scottish immigrant Allan Pinkerton.
Along the way. Professor Olsson writes about the California Big Four businessmen: Leland Stanford (a university established by him carries his name), Collis Huntington, Charles Crocker and Mark Hopkins (a San Francisco hotel is named after him). These four were backers of the Central Pacific Railroad that helped open the first transcontinental railroad that changed the West forever, not always in a positive fashion. Eventually, in order to make more accurate train schedules, railroads created the four continental time zones.
One more real person is another immigrant, Gustavus Swift, whose meat butchering empire helped to make Chicago the second most important city in the United States after New York City. Professor Olsson describes the Native American issues that faced the U.S. in the 19th Century, including the decimation of the buffalo herds and taking of their land.
The “Johnson County War” in Wyoming was about large corporate ranches controlled by East Coast businesses versus local, small, independent rancher. This issue was prevalent in most of the expanding western states. The book covers the Homestead Strike in Pennsylvania. This is where the Pinkerton’s legacy goes from positive to negative because of their strike busting activities.
You get the picture. This is “real history” versus “game history”. The two do not always match and the book tries to align the real versus the storybook. My knowledge of Western history has changed dramatically because of reading this informative book. If you play the games, this is a must read. If you want to learn more U.S. Western history, this is a must read. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED! GO! BUY! READ!
Up front, I want to say that I am not a “gamer”, electronic or otherwise. I had not heard of the game PROFESSOR TORE OLSSON (University of Tennessee, History professor) dissects in his book RED DEAD’S HISTORY. On the other hand, “history” is my “game”, from my college major into my long-time taste in reading. As I started reading this book, I thought to myself “Why am I reading this?” As I got into the meat of the subject, I found it to be very interesting and entertaining. Will I try the game? No! Am I glad I read the book? A resounding “Yes”!
Professor Olsson compares the real history with the history presented in the very popular games. There are three versions of Red Dead: Red Dead’s Revolver, Red Dead’s Redemption and Red Dead’s Redemption 2. They take place in the American West and South of the mid-1860s to the early years of the 20th Century. The main character of the first story (Red Dead’s Revolver) mostly disappears as a character in the two Redemption titles.
The storyline follows the mythical “Dutch van der Linde’s” outlaw band as it robs trains, rustles cattle and generally commits mayhem throughout the Southern and Western United States of the 19th Century and the first decade of the 20th . Arthur Morgan is the primary character and is Dutch van der Linde’s top lieutenant in the gang. On the other side of the law is the famous (or after reading this book, the infamous) Pinkerton National Detective Agency, a real agency founded in 1855 in Chicago by Scottish immigrant Allan Pinkerton.
Along the way. Professor Olsson writes about the California Big Four businessmen: Leland Stanford (a university established by him carries his name), Collis Huntington, Charles Crocker and Mark Hopkins (a San Francisco hotel is named after him). These four were backers of the Central Pacific Railroad that helped open the first transcontinental railroad that changed the West forever, not always in a positive fashion. Eventually, in order to make more accurate train schedules, railroads created the four continental time zones.
One more real person is another immigrant, Gustavus Swift, whose meat butchering empire helped to make Chicago the second most important city in the United States after New York City. Professor Olsson describes the Native American issues that faced the U.S. in the 19th Century, including the decimation of the buffalo herds and taking of their land.
The “Johnson County War” in Wyoming was about large corporate ranches controlled by East Coast businesses versus local, small, independent rancher. This issue was prevalent in most of the expanding western states. The book covers the Homestead Strike in Pennsylvania. This is where the Pinkerton’s legacy goes from positive to negative because of their strike busting activities.
You get the picture. This is “real history” versus “game history”. The two do not always match and the book tries to align the real versus the storybook. My knowledge of Western history has changed dramatically because of reading this informative book. If you play the games, this is a must read. If you want to learn more U.S. Western history, this is a must read. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED! GO! BUY! READ!
July 27, 2024
After devouring this book, only thing I don't know about Red Dead Redemption II is where to find Gavin.
Tore Olsson's book will appeal to a wide range of readers, and while reading I had two feelings: One, selfishly, that this book is custom-tailored to hold my attention and Two: this is going to make a wonderful book club read with my friends who generally don't read much, or read much history.
I'm a 31-year-old English teacher who loves history and entertainment from and about the 1800s. This year I've immersed myself in four biographies of Abraham Lincoln and accounts of the Civil War. (Doris Kearns Goodwin's Team of Rivals is my favorite so far.) I also took a dive into Western fiction, reading the four books of Larry McMurtry's Lonesome Dove saga. I read recent book examining Western films, and watched dozens of them this year alone. In short, I love the West.
I love Olsson's new book because it manages to do two contradictory things. It is a demythologizing book in the best possible way, cutting through to the truth behind many events in the Red Dead games (which, he points out, are often inspired by Hollywood films). But while Olsson seeks the truth, he also loves his source and budget matter. The surfacing truths behind the legends help empower readers with important historical knowledge, while also enriching our experience of fictional stories.
When I next play Red Dead Redemption II, or watch a movie like The Wild Bunch or the miniseries Hatfields and McCoys (which is a really great drama from History Channel, but unsurprisingly not very historical!) I will still enjoy the entertaining aspects, and appreciate them more knowing the real history behind the scripts.
Gamers who don't read much shouldn't be intimidated. The book itself is structured a bit like an adventure as you move along through three distinct geographical locations in the footsteps of Arthur Morgan. In the game, players witness the Pinkertons, a romantic and savage family "blood feud", the destruction of the land by timber and coal companies, the displacement and resistance of the fictional Wapiti tribe, and countless robberies and gunfights. What historical events inspired the writers of the game? You'll find out and learn the truths and have a lot of fun along the way.
Nothing sparks curiosity more than "prior knowledge." Teachers know that the key to learning is having a hook. I'd highly recommend this book to anyone who has enjoyed Western games, movies, and novels. The facts can be tragic, humorous, and epic, but never dull. But if you're like me, and you love history already, the vast survey of topics in this book (from the West, to the South, to Appalachia) is bound to reveal things you missed.
If the author ever reads this review and considers another game to tackle, I would advocate for Vampyr (2018) which takes place in 1918 London after the Great War. It inspired me to read a few books on London’s 1846 cholera outbreak, and the Great Influenza pandemic of 1918-1920, and seems to borrow a lot from history (except for the literal vampires).
I think any fans of the game, the Western genre, or history that is timely and relevant, will enjoy this galloping ride through America's past, present, fiction, and truth.
Disclosure: I won a copy of this book through a Goodreads promotion.
Tore Olsson's book will appeal to a wide range of readers, and while reading I had two feelings: One, selfishly, that this book is custom-tailored to hold my attention and Two: this is going to make a wonderful book club read with my friends who generally don't read much, or read much history.
I'm a 31-year-old English teacher who loves history and entertainment from and about the 1800s. This year I've immersed myself in four biographies of Abraham Lincoln and accounts of the Civil War. (Doris Kearns Goodwin's Team of Rivals is my favorite so far.) I also took a dive into Western fiction, reading the four books of Larry McMurtry's Lonesome Dove saga. I read recent book examining Western films, and watched dozens of them this year alone. In short, I love the West.
I love Olsson's new book because it manages to do two contradictory things. It is a demythologizing book in the best possible way, cutting through to the truth behind many events in the Red Dead games (which, he points out, are often inspired by Hollywood films). But while Olsson seeks the truth, he also loves his source and budget matter. The surfacing truths behind the legends help empower readers with important historical knowledge, while also enriching our experience of fictional stories.
When I next play Red Dead Redemption II, or watch a movie like The Wild Bunch or the miniseries Hatfields and McCoys (which is a really great drama from History Channel, but unsurprisingly not very historical!) I will still enjoy the entertaining aspects, and appreciate them more knowing the real history behind the scripts.
Gamers who don't read much shouldn't be intimidated. The book itself is structured a bit like an adventure as you move along through three distinct geographical locations in the footsteps of Arthur Morgan. In the game, players witness the Pinkertons, a romantic and savage family "blood feud", the destruction of the land by timber and coal companies, the displacement and resistance of the fictional Wapiti tribe, and countless robberies and gunfights. What historical events inspired the writers of the game? You'll find out and learn the truths and have a lot of fun along the way.
Nothing sparks curiosity more than "prior knowledge." Teachers know that the key to learning is having a hook. I'd highly recommend this book to anyone who has enjoyed Western games, movies, and novels. The facts can be tragic, humorous, and epic, but never dull. But if you're like me, and you love history already, the vast survey of topics in this book (from the West, to the South, to Appalachia) is bound to reveal things you missed.
If the author ever reads this review and considers another game to tackle, I would advocate for Vampyr (2018) which takes place in 1918 London after the Great War. It inspired me to read a few books on London’s 1846 cholera outbreak, and the Great Influenza pandemic of 1918-1920, and seems to borrow a lot from history (except for the literal vampires).
I think any fans of the game, the Western genre, or history that is timely and relevant, will enjoy this galloping ride through America's past, present, fiction, and truth.
Disclosure: I won a copy of this book through a Goodreads promotion.
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