Straight America, a call to national service

"Straight America: A Call to National Service" by Frances A. Kellor is a critical social commentary written in the early 20th century. The work examines the state of American society during a time of significant national introspection, especially concerning patriotism, citizenship, and national unity. Expounding on themes of Americanism and the responsibilities that come with citizenship, the book implores its readers to recognize the urgent need for service and engagement in civic life. At the start of the book, Kellor expresses a growing sense of national unease amidst prosperity, citing a collective shame that America is not as united or prepared as it should be in the face of global conflicts. She highlights issues arising from apathy towards citizenship and the complexities of a diverse immigrant population struggling for assimilation. The opening argues that America has failed in its duty to fully incorporate new residents into the national identity, calling for a comprehensive approach to Americanization that includes education, responsibility, and the active participation of all citizens in fostering a cohesive society. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Frances Alice Kellor was an American social reformer and investigator, who specialized in the study of immigrants to the United States and women. She was secretary and treasurer of the New York State Immigration Commission in 1909 and chief investigator for the Bureau of Industries and Immigration of New York State in 1910–13. She also oversaw the American Association of Foreign Language Newspapers.