Here Be Dragons by Peter C. Newman: 9780771067969 | PenguinRandomHouse.com: Books
What impact did Peter C. Newman have on Canadian journalism and history?
Peter C. Newman had a profound impact on Canadian journalism and history. Through his engaging writings, he challenged the political establishment and provided a comprehensive account of Canada’s history. His sharp critique and in-depth analysis forced readers to question conventional narratives and understand the underlying power dynamics shaping the country.
What were some of Peter C. Newman’s notable works and subjects?
Peter C. Newman’s notable works spanned a wide range of subjects. He established himself as a leading authority on Canadian business and politics with books like ‘Flame of Power: Intimate Profiles of Canada’s Greatest Businessmen’ and ‘The Canadian Establishment’, which offered groundbreaking insights into the country’s early beginnings and the influence of prominent figures. He also explored the Bronfman liquor dynasty, Conrad Black, and the Hudson’s Bay Company, delving into their impact on Canadian society and economy.
How did Peter C. Newman’s controversial writing style influence his popularity and reputation?
Peter C. Newman’s controversial writing style played a significant role in shaping his popularity and reputation. While some critics pointed out structural shortcomings in his works, his hyperbolic over-exaggeration and authorial ego made him a polarizing figure. However, this style also made his writing captivating and unique, appealing to Canadian media and political enthusiasts. His bold approach to storytelling challenged conventional norms and stimulated public discourse, further cementing his place in the Canadian literary landscape.
Full summary
Peter C. Newman, a maverick journalist and historian, had a long and prolific career in Canada. He was renowned for his sharp critique of the political establishment and his comprehensive account of Canada's history through his engaging writings.
Early Life and Education
Born in Vienna, Austria in 1929, Newman and his family escaped the clutches of the Nazis, seeking refuge in Canada in 1940. Growing up in Ontario, Newman attended Upper Canada College and later pursued his education at the University of Toronto, where his passion for journalism ignited.
Journalism Career
During his university years, Newman began his journalistic journey as a writer for the University of Toronto newspaper. His talent and dedication led him to join the prestigious Financial Post, where he quickly made a name for himself as an exceptional writer and reporter.
Books and Achievements
In 1959, Newman published his inaugural book, Flame of Power: Intimate Profiles of Canada's Greatest Businessmen. This marked the start of a series of books that established him as a leading authority on Canadian business and politics. Throughout his career, Newman interviewed and wrote about every Canadian prime minister from Louis St. Laurent to Paul Martin. He also served as editor-in-chief at the Toronto Star and Maclean's magazine, transforming the latter into a vibrant newsweekly from a struggling publication.
One of Newman's standout works is The Canadian Establishment, a groundbreaking three-volume series that revolutionized business reporting and offered an in-depth account of Canada's early beginnings as a fur-trading nation. Among his other notable subjects were the Bronfman liquor dynasty, Conrad Black, and the Hudson's Bay Company.
Controversial Writing Style
Newman's writing style was both admired and disputed. Often characterized by hyperbolic over-exaggeration and an authorial ego, it made him a polarizing figure. While some critics found structural shortcomings in his books, they remained popular among Canadian media and political enthusiasts for their captivating content and unique perspective.
Legacy and Death
Beyond his literary achievements, Newman was highly regarded for his extensive knowledge of Canadian business leaders. His contributions to the field earned him numerous awards and honors, including the prestigious Drainie-Taylor Biography Prize for his captivating 2004 autobiography, Here Be Dragons.
On September 7, 2022, Peter C. Newman passed away in Belleville, Ontario, leaving behind a remarkable legacy. Afflicted by Parkinson's disease following a stroke the previous year, his death marked the end of a distinguished career that made an indelible impact on Canadian journalism and history.
