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Typed excerpt from a lecture entitled “Action and the Pursuit of Happiness.” by Hannah Arendt. Text: “Among the many surprises this country holds in store for its new citizens, especially of European background and origin, there is the amazing discovery that “pursuit of happiness” which the Declaration of Independence...”. 1960.

[Detail] Typed excerpt from a lecture by Hannah Arendt. 1960.

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Collection Overview

The Hannah Arendt Papers at the Library of Congressdocuments the life and activities of the noted author, educator and political philosopher. Included in this collection is her correspondence, drafts of books and articles, lectures and speeches. Much of the material documents her life in Germany prior to the war, the persecution she faced due to her support of the Jewish community and her career as a professor once she escaped from Nazi Germany. This collection also includes the transcripts of Adolf Eichmann’s trial proceedings which she used for her book "Eichmann in Jerusalem."

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These historical era(s) are best represented in the collection although they may not be all-encompassing.

  • The Great Depression and World War II, 1929-1945
  • Postwar United States, 1945-early 1970s
  • Contemporary United States, 1968-Present

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