Tourists of History: Memory, Kitsch, and Consumerism from Oklahoma City to Ground Zero

Exploring the impact of national trauma on American culture, Marita Sturken examines how consumerism and kitsch reflect a longing for innocence. She delves into the aftermath of the September 11th attacks, highlighting debates over memorials and the architectural responses at Ground Zero. Additionally, Sturken analyzes the Oklahoma City bombing's legacy through the creation of the Oklahoma City National Memorial and the execution of Timothy McVeigh, revealing complex societal reactions to tragedy and memory.