People of Destiny: Americans as I saw them at Home and Abroad

"People of Destiny: Americans as I Saw Them at Home and Abroad" by Philip Gibbs is a book that reflects on American society after World War I, detailing Gibbs' experiences and thoughts on American culture and the unique traits he observed, especially when he first arrived in New York City. Gibbs uses his perspective to discuss themes of war, how society works, and the different lives of people from various social classes, aiming to capture the spirit of American identity and strength after the war. The book begins with the author's vivid descriptions of New York City during a time of post-war celebration and energy. Gibbs portrays the excitement in the streets, with celebrating soldiers and victory banners, against a backdrop of both the city's magnificent qualities and the hard facts of urban life. He describes busy hotels and restaurants where middle-class Americans enjoy social gatherings, contrasting their obvious wealth with a sense of modesty and honesty. Gibbs also notices the variety of people he meets—from soldiers reuniting with their families to the city’s rich yet down-to-earth socialites—while thinking about the larger social effects of a nation rebuilding and finding its new identity after conflict.