Rare John Steinbeck column probes strength of US democracy

[FakeNoose]

2. These days we call it the "Rule of Law" vs. Populism

... and Steinbeck nailed it, using the older terminology. I've always enjoyed reading Steinbeck, but it's been many years since I picked up one of his books. I need to give him another look.

I don't believe anyone who has graduated high school in the last 50 years has ever heard of Joe McCarthy. Since I grew up in the 1950's and 60's of course I've heard his name many times. But I believe I was too young to understand the concerns and fears about McCarthy, and it was never taught in our schools. Once he fell out of favor - and died - not many journalists have even mentioned his name.

So John Steinbeck was watching it all from a safe distance in Paris. I'm glad he understood what was happening.