The Marvelous Wizard of Oz, An American Fairy Tale — 19 Nov 2025
In 1902 The Marvelous Wizard of Oz by L. Frank Baum was published. In 2000 the Library of Congress called the book “America’s greatest and best-loved homegrown fairytale.” Others have called it the “quintessential American fairy tale.”
Frank Baum 1856-1919 was born in NY, moved to Chicago and ended up in California. During his lifetime he wrote 55 novels, 83 short stories and 53 scripts including 13 more Oz books, short stories and scripts.
But is The Wonderful Wizard of Oz just a children’s book or is there a deeper meaning? Tom will discuss the book, its possible meaning and mention the other Oz books.
In the 1890s Baum was a supporter of the Populist Party and its presidential candidate William Jennings Bryan. The Populist Party advocated for the farmers and laborers. Can one see reflections of their beliefs in the book?
Tom Logan taught MPC history classes for 30 years, and has been an integral part of the Gentrain Program since 1991. His lectures and tours of Mediterranean countries have helped hundreds of people expand their world view. He works closely with the entire Gentrain team, still pursuing and sharing his passion for ancient history.
