Saving Old Glory

Robert Justin Goldstein is professor emeritus of political science at Oakland University in Rochester, Michigan.

"Saving Old Glory: The History Of The The American Flag Desecration Controversy (Westview, 2d ed., 1996), winner of the Myers Center Award for the Study of Human Rights in North America, 1995, selected as a "Social science book of the month" by Transaction: Social Science and Modern Society (May/June, 1995)"A superb book that fills a previously neglected void and raises intriguing questions about the role of the flag in American History." American Journal of Legal History"Goldstein has carefully researched legal sources, newspaper and magazine files and the literature produced by self-appointed flag protection organizations. In addition he has conducted revealing interviews with major players in flag desecration cases since the 1960s. . . .[H]is thorough research and faithful reporting provides an excellent starting point for anyone wishing to explore the broader historical and cultural implications of the flag desecration controversy." Law and History Review"Goldstein's extraordinarily well-researched history, replete with a wealth of previously unpublished material, . . . [provides a] well-told tale [that] is not only fine history but also a reminder of the tenuousness of the right to free speech in a political culture inclined to hysteria during moments of perceived national crisis. American Historical Review "Compelling. Saving Old Glory is a primer for anyone who wants to know how the flag was transformed from a symbol of liberty to an instrument of its suppression." Ira Glasser, [former] Executive Director, ACLU"[A]n extremely readable book based on thorough research . . . . extremely useful for scholars and informed lay readers." Library Journal

• Preface -- Origins of the American Flag Desecration Controversy, 1890-1907 -- The Interpretation and Application of State Flag Desecration Laws, 1899-1964 -- The Vietnam War Era Flag Desecration Controversy, 1965-1974 -- Flag Desecration Laws in the Courts During the Vietnam War Era -- The Great 1989-1990 Flag Burning Controversy -- Appendix