“Fill your house with stacks of books, in all the crannies and all the nooks.” — Dr Seuss. Many people love books. They love reading stories, getting lost in the characters, transporting to a new world and relaxing with a nice book in their hands. For all the avid readers out there, bring your love of novels to your home by decorating your safe haven with them. Yes, books are for more than just reading. To learn how you can use books as decor items in your home, keep scrolling.
Use as Your Nightstand
A majority of the time, you may find yourself snuggled in bed with your nose in a new novel. Well, bring the books to your bed by creating a nightstand out of them. This decoration item looks pleasant and is functional (the best of both worlds). While making your book nightstand, you are going to want to collect sturdy books that are preferably around the same size or level out to the same size. Hardcover books work the best, especially if you plan on placing items on top like a lamp, your phone, other books or any other decoration piece. Once you have all the books, it is time to start making them.
Add on Your Bookshelf
One of the easiest and most common ways people decorate their houses with books is by adding them to a bookshelf. Most book lovers either buy hoses with built-in bookshelves or cases, or they buy one themselves. If you like to keep your decorations simple yet still want to show everyone your love for novels, then adding them to a bookshelf will be your best option. Go ahead and fill up your bookcases and shelves with all your favorite books. And if you do end up having an extensive library, check out this book on how to care for them: At Home with Books: How Booklovers Live with and Care for Their Libraries by Estelle Ellis, Caroline Seebohm and Christopher Simon Sykes.
Place on Coffee Tables
Instead of magazines on a coffee table to entertain people (or yourself), place a few novels on top. This is a great way for others to start reading a new book or even a great icebreaker if you have someone new coming over. You can even rotate the books out, so you always have something new for people to read. Any book is great for coffee tables, but try to have at least two or three different genres out.
Create Seasonal Decor
Books make great seasonal decor. There are loads of books out there for each holiday that you can use as decor. You can also incorporate the books into your holiday displays or use the books to create something completely different and unique. If you do want to do this, make sure you start collecting books or books that go along with the holiday’s colors. For example, if you love Christmas, you will want to gather Christmas books or books that are red, green, silver or gold. A really fun and interesting way to use novels as Christmas decorations is to make a Christmas tree artwork out of them. The more creative you are with your books, the more cool the piece will be.
Make a Headboard
Another unique bedroom idea is to make a headboard out of books. There are many different ways you can make your headboard. You can open the book to the pages, showcase the outside of the book, stack them to create a board and so much more. For this option, make sure you research how to place books together and keep them stable. You do not want your headboard to come crashing down on you while you sleep. Once you plan how you are going to create it, go out and get all the supplies. While you can do this on your own, it will be easier and work better if you work with someone who has woodworking or crafting experience. Commissioning a handyman or sculpture to work with you may work in your favor as well.
Create a Playhouse
For all the young readers out there, you can add on to their room or playroom by creating a playhouse out of books. This decoration or furniture piece does involve some architectural skills, especially since you want it to be fun yet safe for your little one. Do not attempt this option without knowing that you can make it safe for any child. But if you do think or know that you can, you first need to start by designing the layout of the house and collecting a ton of children’s books. When we say a ton, we mean possibly over 100 books, depending on how big you want the playhouse to be. The best way to find all these books is to ask around for some or buy them from garage sales, used book stores or thrift stores. This project is a little pricey, but the outcome is absolutely magical.
Place them in Unexpected Places
Who does not like finding books in unexpected places? That is why while you are decorating your home, place a few novels in areas that you never thought they would be. This decoration option is essentially filling all the nooks and crannies of your home. From an empty cabinet to an empty spot in your bathroom, make sure to add a book or two to the area. Plus, if you are into scavenger hunts, this is the perfect idea for you. For more inspiration on how to live your life with books while decorating, check out this book: Living with Books by Alan Powers.
Make a Wall Sculpture
If you are an artistic or crafty person, you can grab some books and make a one-of-a-kind wall sculpture. You can make any sculpture you want. It can be a picture, a word, a scene or even something abstract. This option is literally up to you and what you feel like making. If you decide to work on this project, make sure you have all the supplies needed to complete the task. You will also want to plan and design before starting. Books are sometimes hard to work with, especially hardcover books because they are not flexible. If you want help, try working or interviewing with a professional sculpture. They will know the ins and outs of creating any piece. Once it is complete, your book sculpture will be the talk of your house.
Place Collections Together
Many books come in collections or series. Keep the group together by grouping them in one place. You can do this on bookcases or shelves, in baskets, on trays, on tables or anywhere else you find appropriate. If it is your favorite collection of novels, you can place them in frames or shadow boxes. If you do decide to frame them, make sure to measure the novel’s height, width and depth. You are going to want to find frames that fit them perfectly. The best way to do this is to measure them yourself or go to a professional framing service to get it done.
Pair with Flowers
Books and flowers go hand in hand. So why not try decorating your home with the two together. There are many different ways you can pair novels and books together. You can place a vase of flowers on top of stacked books, place flowers inside open books or even place them together on a table or tray. The possibilities are endless. You can even place multiple styles of flowers and books throughout your home. This combination adds a sense of elegance and poise to your house.
Create Shelving Out of Books
A very unique decoration you can make out of novels is to make floating shelves. You can pick a theme of books or even your favorite books to create these shelves. You want to pick sturdy, thick and hardcover novels because they will need to be strong enough to withstand anything you add on top and to stay up. Once you pick out your books, you will need to learn how to screw the books into your wall. This option is a great talking point or statement piece for any guests that come over.
Make a Reading Station
If you have a lot of space in your home and a ton of books, then you should consider creating a reading station in your home. You can then decorate this area full of all the novels you own. If you have even more books, you can even create furniture out of all your novels. From table legs, side tables and light stands, there is a load of furniture with books. Once it is complete, it is the perfect place for you to relax and read your books to your heart’s content.
These were just some of the ways you can decorate your home with books. When it comes to books and creativity, the possibilities are endless for decorations. And if you want more inspiration on how to accomplish this task, check out this book: House Beautiful: Decorating with Books by Marie Proeller Hueston.
Please see part one of this series
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]]>Style with Flowers
Want a classy or sophisticated way of displaying the books in your home? Then, try styling them with flowers. You can stack books on top of each other and then add a vase of flowers on top, or you can even incorporate the flowers into the book. No matter what you do, flowers always add extra elegance to every novel and room.
Frame Books
A cool way to display your favorite, signed, antique, vintage or collectible books is to frame them in shadow boxes or picture frames. Frames are a great way to show everyone the most important books in your life as well as adding character to your home. Before buying the frames, make sure to measure the depth, length and width of each book to find the right size frame.
Place on a Pedestal or Tray
For books that match your color scheme or house theme, you can place them on a pedestal or tray as a decor piece. You do not always need to have multiple books for decorating. Instead, you can stick to a few books and place them on pedestals or trays with other small decorative items. Books create a simple yet cute scene with all the other objects that are with it.
Color-Code
If organization is your way of running and decorating your home, then you can color-code novels as decor pieces. There are many ways you can color-code your books. You can keep it simple by keeping all the same colors together, or you can get creative and build a picture with all the books. Some talented book lovers and artists have made rainbows, people’s faces and animals just by color-coding. This method takes a lot of time, effort, thought and changes, but once you get the complete look, it will look amazing.
Create Floating Shelves
While you can buy floating shelves to place your books on, you can take it to the next level by making your floating shelves out of books. Using novels as floating shelves not only adds your personality but makes your home stand out compared to others. The moment people come over, they will immediately notice your floating bookshelves. Once the shelves are up, place decorative objects on top. Plus, you are saving money since you most likely already own the books.
Use as a Stand
Since many books are sturdy and thick, you can create light stands or table legs out of them. If you would like to do this option, it is best to use thick, hardcover books. These types of books can withhold more weight and last longer than a paperback novel. Using novels as a light stand or table leg will definitely be a talking point whenever people come over. Also, prepare yourself for a DIY day if you do decide on this method. It takes time and a lot of adhesive, but once it is complete, it will look cool and interesting.
Think Outside of a Bookcase
Bookshelves and bookcases are the go-to for most people when they own books, but you do not have to stick to the norm. Instead, find cool or unique ways to display your novels. Place them on a table, on the floor, in a cabinet, on a window sill or any other open space. The more creative you get, the more places you can find to store them.
Style Books Throughout Different Rooms
You do not need a specific room to place your books. Instead, you can incorporate them into every single room of your home. Use some of the steps above to find ways to decorate and store your books. You can also just add them wherever you have free space in all your rooms. And, if you have shelving or cabinets, you can use them to your advantage as well. The more you search around, the more places you will find.
If you need more ideas or inspiration, check out these novels: House Beautiful: Decorating with Books by Marie Proeller Hueston, Living with Books by Alan Powers and At Home with Books: How Booklovers Live with and Care for Their Libraries by Estelle Ellis, Caroline Seebohm and Christopher Simon Sykes. And remember to add your own personality every time you add a new book to your decor collection. Did we miss any of your ideas? If so, let us know! We would love to hear from you.
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]]>The post Mirror Synesthesia: Blurred Lines Between the Self and the Other appeared first on Bill Powers.
]]>Types of Synesthesia
Every synesthete’s experience with the phenomenon is unique, but researchers have established two categories: projecting and associative.Projecting
Synesthetes who experience projecting synesthesia will visually experience colors, forms or shapes when the trigger stimulus is present. These projection responses tend to be strong and sometimes physically overwhelming to the individual.Associative
Unlike projecting synesthetes, associatives experience a strong sense of involuntary connection between their sensory and cognitive experiences when exposed to the trigger stimulus. Individuals with associative synesthesia often describe their experiences in their shared context, like an instrument that “sounds blue” or a triangular or square musical tone. Many synesthetes do not categorize their experiences as aberrations, and are often surprised to discover that others do not share their unique perceptions until it comes up in conversation. Unless it causes significant distress, few individuals view their synesthesia as a mental illness (which it isn’t) or even as a handicap. The perception that they have a unique hidden gift is a far more common thread of reasoning among synesthetes, in particular those who are creatives, artists or musicians. The singular exception to this context for these experiences is mirror touch synesthesia (MTS). MTS is an exceptionally rare form of projecting synesthesia, and individuals with the condition often describe it as both physically and emotionally painful, dependent upon the circumstances and trigger stimuli present. What makes this condition unique among synesthetes? Let’s take a closer look.Defining Mirror Synesthesia
In summary, mirror synesthesia is a condition that causes individuals to experience the physical sensation of touch when they observe another person receiving physical stimulus. The name derives from the idea that this type of synesthete is “mirroring” sensations experienced by another, even to the point that sensations on one half of the other person’s body are mirrored on the opposite side of their body. Per a University of Delaware study, it is estimated that only 2% of people in any given population will experience MTS in their lifetime.Causes
The exact causes of this condition are unknown, but there is evidence of a strong correlation between unique structural differences in the brain and an individual’s ability to experience empathy. In a similar study from Cognitive Neuropsychology, individuals with MTS viewed photographs of people’s faces and demonstrated a superior ability to recognize the emotions expressed compared to non-mirror touch synesthetes. From their collected data, researchers concluded these synesthetes possessed enhanced social and cognitive recognition sensations. Whatever the cause or research findings, it is clear there is some link between empathy/lack of empathy and MTS for many synesthetes who experience this unique condition.Symptoms
Most synesthetes with mirror touch experience one of two subtypes of symptoms. The first is the previously described mirror synesthesia where an individual observes someone else experiencing a physical stimulus and experiences a similar sensation on the opposite side of the body. When an individual who had a pen pressed into the palm of their right hand, the synesthete would experience a sensation of pressure in the palm of their left hand. The second subtype is referred to as anatomical synesthesia, and the synesthete experiences the physical stimulus in the exact part of the body as the individual receiving the physical stimulus. Both types of MTS involve some the following criteria: • pain in the opposite side of the body when another person feels pain • a sensation of touch while observing another person being touched • differing sensations when another person is touched, including itching, tingling, pressure or pain. Mirror touch synesthetes describe the intensity of sensations as varying in severity from mild to acutely painful. It is also typical for these synesthetes to report that they have experienced these symptoms since childhood. It is often accompanied by sharing emotional experiences like involuntary crying when they see others cry, or laughing involuntarily when others are laughing. Like other synesthetes, mirror touch synesthetes have varying perspectives of their condition. Some view it as a curse that requires consistent cognitive coping mechanisms to prevent it from interfering with their wellbeing, while others view it as a gift for empathy and compassion. Here are a couple case studies that provide a view into both perspectives.
Mirror Touch Synesthesia Case Studies
Dr. Joel Salinas
A Harvard Medical School graduate and neurologist working at Massachusetts General Hospital, Dr. Salinas experiences mirror-touch synesthesia. He views his MTS as a useful gift in determining symptoms with patients who cannot explain what is wrong themselves. Dr. Salinas makes no claims to be a mind-reader, but he has found success in helping patients find the source and level of their pain. This has been instrumental to his work as a doctor, and has led to more effective treatment for non-verbal patients and patients with communication disabilities. He is also the first to admit that his gift does come with a price. When he performs spinal tap procedures on patients, he can feel the needle going into his own lower back. His interactions with enraged psychotic patients often leave him feeling emotionally worked up and angry. Working with patients who are about to die can leave him feeling hollow and depleted physically and emotionally. It requires significant self-discipline and healthy cognitive coping mechanisms for him to overcome these synesthetic experiences, but he always moves on to help the next patient. After all, who is more uniquely qualified to help than han he?Maureen Seaburg
Ms. Seaburg is a blogger, author and speaker who works to raise awareness about MTS. Maureen actively advocates for further research into MTS, and has published a book on the topic, Struck by Genius. Ms. Seaburg firmly believes the ideal posited by neuroscientist Dr. V.S. Ramachandran that MTS will “…do for psychology what DNA did for biology.” In her article, she describes an experience giving a talk at a New York high school regarding MTS. After her presentation on the history of the condition and symptoms, students were invited to ask questions. Naturally, students asked if she could tell them what physical sensations they were presently experiencing, or to tell them where on their body they experienced pain from childhood injuries. She proceeded to correctly answer the questions posed by six students, leaving all of them astounded. Seaburg views her MTS as something of a mixed blessing more than a gift or a curse. She frequently feels she must cut through what she describes as “empathic noise” around her to focus on working and coping with daily life. Seaburg further states in the conclusion of her article that she has never conducted an experiment similar to her talk at the high school in a laboratory setting, but she is open to the idea.Diagnosis
While there are currently no official diagnostic criteria for MTS, there are two criteria most doctors and psychologists implement to determine the presence of MTS: • a physical synesthetic response or unconscious sensation of feeling what others you observe are feeling • an enhanced level of empathy compared to others. Individuals being evaluated are generally instructed to observe another individual being touched and state if they experience a synesthetic response. Sometimes the diagnostician will use objects of varying weight and texture to determine its effect on the synesthetic response. Heavier objects, sharp objects and light objects have been shown to vary the intensity of sensations, so varying the stimulus can function as a key component of diagnosis. Following the self-reporting diagnosis, some patients may have an MRI to measure brain activity during stimulus or a trans-cranial direct current stimulation (TDC) to map any potential outliers or differentiations in their brain structure. These are costly and complex procedures, so outside of clinical studies it is rare to be evaluated using either method. Symptoms of MTS can cause people to withdraw from daily activities and social interactions because they fear being overwhelmed by potential synesthetic responses. If you believe you are experiencing MTS and it is causing you significant distress, you should consult with your doctor, a psychologist and/or a neurologist. They can also help you develop a method of treatment to help you cope with the condition and make recommendations for helping you maintain your physical and mental wellbeing.Treatment
It is important to note not every mirror touch synesthete experiences mental distress from their condition. For many, working with a therapist who specializes in sensory processing disorders is the best way to develop healthy coping mechanisms and establish stability and normalcy. In some cases, a therapist or psychiatrist may recommend a prescription for anxiety and depression. It is common for individuals with MTS to experience both mental illnesses due to their inability to “shut off” the constant stimulus they experience when around others. Taking medication to treat those conditions can often be life changing, and for many it allows them to feel as though they have greater control over their feelings and MTS symptoms. Bottom line, if you are experiencing mental distress from MTS to the point it affects how you live your life, reach out to your doctor for help. They are there to help.Final Thoughts
MTS is an exceptionally rare condition that the medical and scientific community is only just beginning to understand. That does not in any way discount your personal experience, and if you have experienced symptoms of MTS that cause you distress, you should consult with your general practitioner or a psychologist. The lines between your own sensations and emotions and those of others may appear blurred, but that does not mean that your condition is a curse or a defect. MTS is not an illness, but simply another way some individuals experience the world around them. Celebrate this unique experience for its potential, and don’t hesitate to seek help and understanding if you are struggling.
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]]>Dubbed “private varnish” for the specialized wood finish used for all their interior furnishings, private railroad cars were the height of travel sophistication well into the 20th century. Many were luxury land yachts that crossed the great plains of the United States from coast to coast, and they were considered the pinnacle of intercontinental travel across the globe.
As time passed and technology advanced, many of these cars were forgotten by the titans of industry and finance in favor of newer and faster means of transportation. The jet airplane and the luxury commuter sedan gradually replaced taking the train for short or long distance travel. If you know where to look though, you can still experience the unparalleled luxury of crossing continents in style with the people who matter most.
How exactly do you go about buying or chartering your own private rail car? The process is easier than you might think. Here’s what you need to know about purchasing or planning a trip by private rail car.
Buying and Owning a Private Rail Car
Buying your own private rail car is akin to buying a boat or an RV that you plan to spend a significant amount of time on board, or an investment you intend to keep in continuous use via charters and rentals. Most people who buy a private rail car do so to restore it to its vintage state out of a deep or lifelong love of railroading and railroad history.
You’ll want to consider whether it’s a passion project or an investment before you make a purchase. Clearly, from the costs we are about to discuss, it’s probably the former more than the latter. A private varnish is definitely the perfect luxury or project purchase for anyone fascinated by railroads and railroad history.
Upfront Costs
The approximate cost of a classic Pullman-style sleeper car generally costs in the neighborhood of $25,000 for a car in reasonably serviceable condition. Dome cars or multi-story cars can cost as much $85,000 depending on how much work they need.
Speaking of work, the average cost to refurbish a private rail car can fall anywhere between $150,000 to $500,00 to get it in certified safe condition. That means it can travel on modern railroad tracks at speeds of up to 110 mph. Some owners spend significantly more to add luxury upgrades and appointments, too.
If you are in the market to buy and restore a private rail car, these costs should give you a fairly accurate representation of what you can expect to spend. It’s not for everyone, but it’s definitely a unique alternative to boating or buying an RV.
Maintenance and Long Term Costs
Buying and restoring a private varnish is just the initial step of ownership. You also need to consider the cost to store your car at a connected railroad facility when it is not in use. Typically, the storage costs are anywhere from $500-$1000 per month depending on where you store it. There is also an annual activation cost to operate your train car on Amtrak railroads of $250.
Combine that with upkeep on maintaining wear and tear on an antique or restored antique train car, and the annual expenses add up quickly. Still, there is something unique about owning a private rail car you can see the United States from a wholly different point of view.
Travel Costs
Once your private varnish is ready to ride the rails via Amtrak (there are other options, but it’s the most common), you need to calculate the cost of travel. In addition to your annual activation fee, you will also pay a fee per mile to have your car attached to an Amtrak train. The going rate is $2.10 per mile, and a trip from Washington, DC to NYC costs around $500. Add another $100 per night for overnight parking at Amtrak stations along the way, too.
You also need to consider crew costs for your car if you plan on having private staff to wait on you and your guests. You’ll definitely need to increase your estimate per trip if you have a kitchen in your car and need a chef to staff it. If you’ve got the money for a private varnish with a kitchen though, the chef’s fee is probably going to be a minor consideration.
Finally, your biggest expense is going to be for towing. It costs anywhere from $500-$1600 to pull your car from storage to the nearest Amtrak station. Depending on mileage, you are probably looking between $2,000-$3,000 per trip. The secret to operating a private varnish affordably lies in chartering it out or renting it for local trips when you aren’t traveling yourself. Much like an RV or boat rental service, keeping a private train car can actually be fairly affordable once you get past the startup cost.
Chartering a Private Rail Car
For those who aren’t interested in the long term investment, expense and dedication that goes into owning a private varnish, there are many private charters and private tour services that will allow you to live the private care experience at a fraction of the cost of ownership. Here’s a few ways you can travel by private rail without taking a second mortgage out on your home.
Main Route Excursions
As with all forms of rail travel, luxury private cars are all about the journey and less about the destination. If you have your heart set on a specific journey across the United States to experience the fabled lands immortalized in stories and songs, chartering a private car along a major Amtrak route will be the most cost effective way to make the trip.
There are also alternative railroad routes that allow chartered private cars, but those routes typically command a significantly higher cost per mile. Popular choices include trips from northern Washington State along the west coast to southern California, or Chicago to Los Angeles to take in both the heartland and the southwestern deserts. No matter where you go, a private charter train car will make it the trip of a lifetime.
Special Events/Family Gatherings
Honeymoons, wedding anniversaries, family reunions and major life events are all perfect occasions to charter a private varnish for the trip of a lifetime together. You can relax in spacious comfort and celebrate your time together through some of the most beautiful countryside in North America. You’ll cherish those memories in the years to come, and reflect back on your trip as money well spent.
Moreover, some die-hard sports fans actually charter private cars to travel to major events like the Super Bowl or the World Series. Parking is never a problem, and you are always a few minutes walk from the event itself when you arrive. Better still, you don’t need to worry about booking hotels and paying inflated rates. Bottom line, chartering a private varnish makes your event unforgettable in every way.
Business Conferences
Whether you are entertaining clients or holding an annual partners/board meeting, traveling by private rail car is a unique opportunity for closing deals or team building. When you aren’t talking business, you can all stretch out and enjoy the unlimited legroom, luxurious seating and unforgettable scenery.
Some companies actually charter multiple cars to accommodate more team members on the journey. Most make it the annual company celebration, complete with catering and an open bar. It’s definitely worth considering, and in many cases it’s less expensive than booking travel and hotels for everyone at a conference center or resort.
Luxury Private Rail Tours
Don’t need a private car all to yourself but still want the private varnish experience? Not a problem. Companies like Palm Leaf LLC offer weeklong private train trips from Los Angeles to New Orleans for Mardis Gras each year. Instead of a private charter, you are traveling as part of a tour group aboard a private train.
All meals while in motion are included, and the train is parked right in the heart of New Orleans for the celebration. You can even use the sleeper car as your hotel each night of the tour that you’re there. Best of all, the cost per person is extremely reasonable for luxury travel at just under $3,000.
Final Thoughts
There are many benefits to traveling by private varnish across the United States, and you don’t even need to own a private car to enjoy the experience. Owning a private varnish is akin to owning a yacht in terms of expense, but like a yacht your car can earn its keep when you aren’t using it yourself.
Anyone who loves rail travel should at least consider joining an organized tour by private train to experience the United States from a perspective only accessible by rail. Not only is it a truly unique way to travel, but it is also the experience of a lifetime.
RESOURCES:
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Although trains can sometimes be seen as a more antiquated form of travel, the fact is that millions of Americans ride the rails every year. Amtrak, the largest railroad company in the country, estimates that roughly 87,000 people use their trains daily.
However, while most Americans are used to sitting next to strangers and dealing with cramped luggage compartments, a select few get to ride a more dignified way – by private railcar. In this article, we’re going to discuss the ins and outs of personal railroad travel in the United States. If you’ve ever dreamed of having complete privacy on a train, these cars are unlike anything you’ve experienced before.
The Basics of Private Rail Travel
If we could take a time machine back to the golden days of railroad travel, private cars were more common than they are today. There are a few dozen in operation currently, although the people and organizations who own them don’t get to make the rules about how they run.
As the only railroad with passenger trains, Amtrak is the law for private car owners. Since these cars don’t have any means to power themselves, owners have to rely on Amtrak to pick them up and drop them off.
There are two ways a private car can travel. First, it can get hooked up to the back of a regular passenger train. In this case, up to two cars can be attached – no more. Usually, when that does happen, both cars are owned by the same person or organization, but not always.
The second option is to have a charter train. This is a train consisting solely of private railcars, and it can operate on all Amtrak rails that are “in-network.” Up until 2018, charter trains could run on smaller tracks and freight-only tracks, but Amtrak changed their rules arbitrarily, making it harder for charter trains to operate. We’ll get more into that relationship later.
Beyond the two travel methods, there are many unique challenges and costs associated with private railcar ownership.
Pick Up and Drop Off Locations
Since the person who owns the railcar gets to decide where to travel, they usually want a station more secluded than the ones offered for regular passengers. However, because Amtrak has to make the extra trip, it limits where private cars can sit overnight. Called “access points,” private railcar owners have to pay extra for the privilege of getting hitched to the train.
Monthly Rental Costs
Although an individual or organization can own a private railcar itself, it doesn’t own the track or the station where it resides. Again, these owners have to pay Amtrak to hold the car, much like paying a marina owner to keep your boat docked. However, unlike a ship, these costs can be much higher, ranging to almost two thousand dollars a month. These fees don’t even include maintenance and upkeep, which can be quite expensive for older cars that need a lot of refurbishing and upgrading.
Pay-Per-Mile Costs
Some private car owners like to take their property out for short day trips, but others prefer to go on longer, overnight journeys. Regardless of the distance, Amtrak currently charges $3.74 per mile. So, going from New York to Washington can add up, and that’s not including the overnight fees for staying at a stop temporarily. In most cases, a car owner can spend several thousand dollars on transportation expenses, all without accounting for on-board staff, including porters and chefs.
Cheap Up-Front Costs, Expensive Renovation
At first glance, owning a private car can look relatively affordable. Depending on the make and model of the car, as well as its current condition, the whole thing might set you back only a few thousand bucks. However, while the upfront price may be low, that’s barely the tip of the iceberg.
Most owners will sink hundreds of thousands of dollars into refurbishment and renovation. While each car is different, it’s not uncommon to spend at least $250,000 to get the car up to standards. In most cases, the interior is made to resemble what luxury railcars would look like during the glory days of railroad travel. Everything is designed to maintain a certain aesthetic, such as deep-colored wood, timeless upholstery and drapes, and antique lighting fixtures.
Once you add in the rental fees, travel fees, and maintenance fees, owning a private railcar is not for the faint of heart. However, this hobby attracts more than just the super-rich. Many of these owners are hobbyists with a deep love of the railroad. Additionally, historical societies and railroad organizations purchase and refurbish private cars to use as “living museums.”
The American Association of Private Railroad Car Owners, Inc.
Because there are so few private owners in the country (roughly 80 or so), it’s not hard for them to stay organized. AAPRCO not only helps these owners get in touch with each other, but it owns a few cars itself and hosts an annual convention. Every year, members will create a charter train of their railcars and travel cross-country. For them, it’s not about the destination, but the journey itself.
Benefits of Traveling Privately By Rail
For many people, the high costs of ownership and maintenance are nowhere near enough to justify getting a private railcar. However, for those in AAPRCO, the price isn’t even an issue. Yes, these cars are expensive, but the value they provide is much higher. As owner DeWhitte Chapple remarked at the 2019 convention, “To love a train is a defective gene, but it’s one that a lot of us here have.”
Chapple himself owns several cars, although he purchased some of them with others to help share the financial burden. When you talk to these owners about the reason behind their decision, it becomes clear that the benefits outweigh the costs, no matter how high they are. These benefits include:
Comfortable Accommodations
When riding in a modern passenger car, you’ll often be fighting for an armrest or a place to put your luggage. Even if you’re on a daily commuter train, the accommodations leave a lot to be desired. Trains these days are about getting you to the destination quickly, not making you comfortable along the way.
Depending on which Amtrak train you’re on, it can fit hundreds of passengers. For example, the California Zephyr holds up to 294 people, while the Auto Train can fit up to 500. In a private car, however, most of them carry 50 individuals or less. Those that have overnight cabins generally hold around 25 max.
So, rather than throwing elbows and having to deal with sleeping neighbors, you get to stretch your feet out and relax in style. Plus, the old-fashioned decor and ambiance make the trip even more enjoyable.
Even the food in a private railcar is better, provided that you pay for the luxury. Imagine having a chef cook fresh meals for you right in the car. No more bagged lunches or food from a deli fridge – everything is made to order, just the way you like it.
Personal Freedom
Yes, traveling from one place to the next via plane is going to be much faster. A trip from coast to coast can take just a few hours, while it will take several days on a train. However, speed is the last reason to take a private railcar.
According to some owners, the freedom offered by these cars is second to none. At the airport, you have to deal with security checkpoints, luggage restrictions, and pushy airline attendants. On a private railcar, you have total control over everything that goes on inside.
A Unique Travel Experience
Because railroads are a unique network of pathways, you get access to views that you can’t get any other way. Many rails are not alongside roads and highways, meaning that you can’t replicate the experience in a car or bus ride.
To help improve the visual experience, some private railcars are outfitted with massive dome windows. This way, passengers get to see the environment in 360 degrees. Depending on where you’re going, these vistas are breathtakingly gorgeous.
Another element that makes these trips more enjoyable is that you can bring your friends and family along. Many owners will rent out their cars regularly to help cover costs, but a lot of the time, they use the opportunity to have a more intimate travel experience with their loved ones. Unlike a road trip or a plane ride, sitting in a railcar allows passengers to sit and interact along the way. So, even though the journey may take longer, it’s not like you’re sitting still the whole time, trying to evade boredom.
Camaraderie and Brotherhood
Finally, being a private railcar owner means that you are part of an exclusive club. As we mentioned, only a handful of individuals own these cars, making it more unique than most other travel-related groups.
Also, because you have to have a deep affection for railroad history and culture to own one of these cars, meeting other enthusiasts is always a treat. During the annual AAPRCO conventions, owners love the kinship created among the group. While the charter train is en route, members will have impromptu parties and regale each other with stories and banter.
Owning vs. Renting a Private Rail Car
Fortunately, if you like the idea of riding in a private car but don’t want the financial burden of owning one, rentals are quite common. In fact, many owners will subsidize their hobby by renting their cars out to various groups and organizations. Even AAPRCO helps facilitate rentals, hosting guests on its own cars or supplementing them out to various members.
If you are interested in renting a private car, you’ll likely need to be part of a larger group. It’s not exactly cost-effective to hire staff and pay travel fees for just one person. However, there are many situations where private railcars prove viable, for example:
-Historical Society Trips – If the society owns the car, it will usually organize a trip for both new and old members. These journeys are an easy way to share the history of the railroad in a fun and exciting way.
-VIP Travel – Typically, it’s heads of state who like to ride the rails privately. Every president from Carter to Obama has traveled on the famous Georgia 300 car, initially built in 1930. Besides presidents, some high-level celebrities like Michael Jackson and other bands have ridden privately over the years.
-Business Groups – While renting a private car isn’t necessarily cost-effective for a company, it can offer executives a quiet place to converse and work together during the trip. For example, a private railcar could work well for a corporate retreat.
The Future of Private Rail – A Subculture in Danger
Because Amtrak is the only operator that can transport private railcars, owners have little recourse when the company makes a change. Also, since Amtrak is partially funded through government subsidies (thanks to a Nixon-era law), it feels increased pressure to make money.
Interestingly, private car owners are highly profitable, but only if you look at them individually, not as part of a much larger organization. Annually, Amtrak makes roughly four million dollars from private ownership fees. However, all told, the company earns over three billion from standard ticket sales.
Because of this discrepancy, Amtrak cut travel options for private railcars back in 2018. With only a few week’s notice, the company said that private cars could only be used on tracks “in-network” and that the cost per mile would go up by 12 percent. Also, cross-country trips, which are usually operated at a loss by the company, would be forbidden unless done at least three times annually. Even AAPRCO only hosts two cross-country charters every year, so this change disrupted the industry significantly.
Another piece of the puzzle is the fact that Amtrak is trying to speed up its trains. The U.S. falls well behind other countries that have trains that can get up to 500 miles per hour. According to U.S. law, private cars can only go as fast as 110 miles per hour. If Amtrak does move forward with upgrading its trains, private owners could see their travel options reduced even more.
Overall, private rail travel is a piece of American history, and we would hate to see it disappear forever. Fortunately, owners and the AAPRCO are fighting fiercely to preserve the tradition – we’ll just have to see how it all plays out.
Resources:
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Writing is a craft that shapes most of our society. Writers create the content that fills websites, blogs, newspapers and magazines. Their words keep us informed about what is going on around us, and more often than not, they introduce us to new topics we have never heard about. They write novels that take us to other worlds and they write nonfiction that teaches us about what is real.
Writers have a real gift. The way they think is different. They are constantly creating and must spend hours and hours researching and editing. While it has not been proven in a scientific study, most writers seem to be introverts. They enjoy connecting with the written word, which can be less draining and stressful than having an in-person interaction.
Here are some examples that show most writers are introverts.
Writing is Less Intimidating Than Speaking
Introverts do not typically enjoy social encounters with a lot of conversations and interaction. Writing can replace the stress of that situation with a calm, peaceful route to expression. Introverts have the same thoughts and emotions that extroverts have, it is just that they do not feel comfortable expressing themselves in the same way. Writing allows introverts to speak their truth, just in a different way. Writers are able to communicate their thoughts, feelings and ideas into their writing, and while they are not having a face-to-face conversation with someone, this method allows them to communicate in a way they feel comfortable.
Writers Enjoy Being Alone
Writers tend to enjoy being alone to create. They can concentrate and focus solely on the work they want to do. This is another trait that introverts have. They work well alone and do not depend on anyone else for help. Writing is an excellent career for introverts because this craft literally requires alone time. Writing is a lot of work that requires research, editing and focus. It would be nearly impossible to write in a noisy, chaotic space filled with people. Writing goes hand-in-hand with being solo and working alone, which are introvert traits. Being alone helps them to be creative and to express themselves fully.
Introverts are Thinkers
Introverts enjoy spending time alone where they can think and make decisions by themselves. Writing and thinking go together. You cannot form a great article, book or blog post without thinking about the topic and arriving at an opinion. Writing is often shaped around opinions and beliefs, and writers must research thoroughly to ensure they are reporting accurate information. Writing simply makes sense for introverts, because they already think in this manner in their daily lives. Writing does not change anything drastic for them, other than that they are now sharing their thoughts with the rest of the world.
Writers are Very Aware of Their Surroundings
Being aware of surroundings is a trait that both writers and introverts share. Introverts are generally great at reading people, sensing emotions and picking up small details that others might miss. They will always notice finer points of situations and minor details in conversations. Writers must use their words and descriptions to accurately tell a story, and they are always paying attention to little details. Every single piece of a situation that a writer picks up is more content for a storyline. This is why being an introvert and being a writer coincide with each other so much – attention to detail and noticing every little thing are both huge traits in these kind of people. It really seems like being an introvert is helpful when becoming a writer, because so much of the writer routine and persona is part of being an introvert.
Introverts are Great Listeners
Introverts tend to sit back and listen to someone speak rather than to interrupt and throw in their two cents. As they listen, they gather tons of information that can be used in a creative way. This is what works well when it comes to writing. Introverts have the ability to be quiet, listen and simply take in what is around them. Extroverts tend to do the complete opposite and cannot master focusing on one thing at a time. This is another reason why being an introvert and a writer compliment each other so well.
Writing is Time to Reflect
Introverts often think about what has happened over the course of a day and take it in with a grain of salt. Whatever they have learned and experienced that day does not go overlooked. They are always very alert, taking in all those small details about people and places. Writing works well with the introvert personality because writing serves as reflection – something introverts already do. Writing is a way to use reflection in a productive, creative way. It is something that introverts do naturally, so it is not hard to incorporate into a writing routine. Most writers are introverts because of this fact – most of the introvert mindset is perfect for a writing career or hobby.
It would be difficult for extroverts to maintain the same mindset and routine that introverts do. It comes naturally for introverts to use what they have seen and learned in their lives in their creative work. They reflect about their lives all the time, so that is why it flows so naturally when it comes to writing. Many people may not realize the amount of self-reflection that goes into writing. As a writer, you are in a constant state of thinking and you are always processing situations in your life to relate them to what you are currently writing. Anything that happens in real life can be used in a story line, which is why it is so important to focus on a current piece of writing and utilize details of your own life to continue writing it. This not only works with fiction work, but with journalism, magazine writing and blog writing as well. Taking real life into account works with any type of writing, and in fact, it is what makes writing relatable and enjoyable. People enjoy reading about what is real and what they can learn from. Writers – and introverts – take from their own lives to explain things to others.
Downtime Does Not Feel Unproductive to Writers
Downtime does not feel unproductive to writers because their down time is what fuels their ambition to continue writing. Introverts need time to recharge and refuel after a long day of social interaction and conversation, so when they are alone, they enjoy this downtime and use it to their advantage. While some may feel guilty for having downtime and think they could be using this time to work more, writers know that this time is vital to their well-being and their craft of writing. This introvert trait works perfectly for writers and the downtime feels satisfying and necessary.
Writing is Fun for Introverts
The bottom line is that writing is fun for introverts, and that is why most writers are introverts by default. Not everyone enjoys putting pen to paper and letting ideas and thoughts form an article or story, but for many introverts, writing is a fun way to release creativity.
Not everyone is comfortable in social settings, which is often looked at as a flaw. Being an introvert is nothing to be upset about and should never be looked at as a problem. Creativity is a beautiful thing and a vital part of life. Introverts are lucky to have the ability to use their traits to express such a high level of creativity. Sitting down and writing anything – a newspaper article, a blog post, a magazine piece, a nonfiction book, a novel, a poetry book – takes a ton of hard work and dedication. Writers should feel very proud of their introvert mindset and embrace it, as it fuels their craft. Many people do not have the attention span, the will to create or the knowledge of expression to write. Introverts have these traits right from the beginning of their lives.
Introverts often find it difficult to be a part of the conversation, but with writing, this becomes a whole lot easier. Introverts can easily be a part of something using the written word. They may not want to stand up in front of lots of people and give a speech, but their writing says what they want to share with the world. Their work is published in all kinds of media outlets, and people all over the world are able to read it. Writing is behind nearly everything we do as a society and stands out as a vital form of communication. The news, movies we watch, books we read, websites we enjoy and the education system are based upon the written word, and introverts have a large hand in that. It is always important to recognize this fact and remember how much writers shape our lives.
If you are an introvert, a great listener, an observer and are constantly reflecting about your life, writing just may be your calling.
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In the world of historical fiction, one subset that has always been popular is the “what if” scenario. Wars are an intriguing starting point for these stories, as it can be fun to go down the rabbit hole of alternate endings. What if Germany won World War II? What if the U.S. ceded the South to the Confederacy? What if the South had won at Gettysburg?
Beyond the big questions, we have a slew of smaller “what if” conflicts, thanks to now-defunct drafts of war plans. During the late 1800s and early 1900s, many of the European powers, as well as America, developed plans in case of an attack by various nations or empires. While we could spend countless hours diving into the different plans drawn up, today we’re going to discuss one in particular: war plan Black.
To help you get some context, this plan was one of many drafted before the Great War of 1914, and many of them were adjusted as the war played out. Black outlined the U.S. strategy for a German invasion, and interestingly, the Germans had made plans of their own. If you’re a fan of historical fiction, you’ll appreciate learning how the two powers envisioned a head-to-head conflict on America’s turf.
A Brief Overview of the U.S. War Plans
As early as 1904, the American War Department had begun to use color-coding, along with abbreviated names and symbols, to reflect different countries. The primary purpose of this system was so that the Army and Navy could develop a unified attack strategy using the same colors and names.
Starting in the early 1920s, the U.S. began to develop war plans, using the colors already in play for the different countries. For example, since Great Britain was red, War Plan Red was a strategy of conflict against Britain and its colonial allies, most notably Canada. In all of these drafts, the U.S. was always referred to as “blue.”
What’s crucial to point out is that the development of these plans is relatively standard for military powers. Usually, the reasoning is that, should a conflict arise, it’s better to have a plan in place, rather than waste time drafting new tactics on the fly. Even if war seemed inconceivable at the time, these plans were created as a “just in case” fallback. Planning is actually what most militaries do best.
One of the more well-known plans was War Plan Orange, which saw the U.S. fighting against the Japanese Empire. Given how the Japanese were expanding aggressively throughout the Pacific Ocean, and that the Imperial Navy was one of the best in the world, American strategists saw war as inevitable. Some components of the plan were even used during World War II, although they were folded into a “Rainbow Plan” to deal with the other Axis powers.
Some other examples of color-coded war plans include:
-War Plan Brown – A strategy for defeating an uprising in the Philippines, where the U.S. had military bases and troops stationed.
-War Plan Gold – A plan for engaging with France and its Caribbean colonies, such as Haiti.
-War Plan Green – U.S./Mexico relations were strained during the 1910s, particularly with the -Mexican Revolution. This war plan envisioned an invasion strategy to install a more pro-American government.
Most of these plans never came to fruition (obviously), and the system of color-coding was scrapped after World War 2. However, War Plan Black, when seen from both sides, offers some valuable insight into what goes into war strategy before a major conflict.
War Plan Black – Fighting Against a WW1-Era Germany
In the modern era, it can be hard to believe that the United States did not have much in the way of a standing army pre-World War 1. Whenever the country would go to battle, the president had to ask Congress to declare war, and the military would mobilize troops and train them from there.
At the time, America’s standing army was roughly 100,000 troops, but many of them were stationed overseas in places like the Philippines and the Panama Canal. The canal was of supreme importance since an attack and invasion there could cut supply lines and prevent naval ships from moving between the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans. Part of War Plan Black anticipated the German assault of Panama because of its strategic location.
So, in the event of an invasion of the mainland U.S., the military realized that they couldn’t mobilize fast enough to prevent the Germans from gaining a foothold. Not only did America lack the troops to defend the most significant ports along the eastern seaboard, but the vast coastline of the country was impossible to monitor, which meant that German craft could easily find a landing zone with no defenses.
The two ports that were most likely to be hit would be New York or Savannah. When the plan was revised in 1916, during the height of the war, the U.S. decided to concentrate naval forces in New England. Since the Germans would be coming across from European shores or the North Sea, it made the most sense to congregate and monitor the waters in the North Atlantic.
What the brass didn’t realize, however, was that the Royal Navy held the Germans back quite well, so the chances of German ships breaking out and coming to America were slim. Even if a few vessels could make the voyage, there wouldn’t be enough supplies to launch a full-scale invasion.
Another element that escaped the U.S. Navy was Germany’s reliance on submarines. They assumed that they would be facing a fleet of battleships, destroyers, and other craft, not underwater vessels.
Protecting the Caribbean
A significant component of War Plan Black was to monitor France’s colonies. The worry was that Germany would break through the French defenses and take the country. If that were to happen, they would have access to French ports and would likely try to seize her colonies in the Caribbean. From there, it would be easy for the Germans to reach Panama and the southern U.S.
To combat this potential problem, the Navy would deploy its own subs to watch the waters around Haiti, as well as the Panama Canal. In addition to patrols, the submarines would also lay underwater mines to repel enemy ships.
On the mainland, the Navy enacted several war games to ready ground troops to repel an attack from the sea. Many of the armaments along the coast hadn’t been used, so most soldiers were unfamiliar with them. At the time, war games weren’t prevalent, and after the war ended, they were largely abandoned until the U.S. was thrust into global conflict yet again.
Operations Plan I Through III – The German Plans for an American Invasion
It’s easy to understand a strategy from your own side, but what did the Germans think of going to war with the United States? Interestingly, a plan was ordered by Kaiser Wilhelm III as early as 1897. Even then, the Germans realized that occupying the U.S. would be a foolish mission. Instead, these plans aimed at diminishing America’s resources and influence. Crippling the U.S. was the goal, and from there, Germany could have the leverage to bargain for a more favorable surrender.
Three proposals were drafted between 1897 and 1906. The plans were adjusted based on geopolitical events at the time, such as the U.S. gaining territory after the Spanish-American War in 1898. Here is a brief overview of each plan.
Operations Plan I
Prepared by naval Lieutenant Eberhard von Mantey, the primary goal of this plan was to attack American naval bases on the east coast. With the U.S. forces diminished, the Germans could move toward Washington D.C., facilitating a quick surrender.
Key points in this plan were the bases at Hampton Roads in Virginia and the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard between Maine and New Hampshire. New York was believed too fortified to attack directly.
Operations Plan II
When the United States emerged from the Spanish-American war in 1898, it gained territories within the Caribbean, including Puerto Rico and Cuba. Because of this, the war plan had to be adjusted to account for new naval bases on these islands.
So, rather than focusing on a naval bombardment of the coast, this revised plan had ground troops landing in Cape Cod and Sandy Hook. These soldiers would be accompanied by heavy artillery and naval warships, with their primary targets being New York and Boston. Since these cities were too well fortified from the sea, a ground invasion was the best option. To help stage these attacks, the Kaiser wanted to set up a base of operations in Cuba. This would require taking the U.S. base by force first.
Operations Plan III
The final invasion strategy refined the landing points on the eastern seaboard, opting for strikes at Cape Ann and Provincetown, MA. The soldiers would form a pincer attack on Boston, and once the city fell, they’d turn their sights on New York.
The other significant addition to this plan was the assault of Puerto Rico. If the Germans could take the island, they’d be within striking distance of the Panama Canal, which would cause the Americans to panic even further.
Overall, each of these plans was too big and too ambitious to be taken seriously. The primary obstacle was Germany’s waning naval superiority. While the British and American navies were ramping up, Germany just couldn’t keep the pace. By 1906, it was clear that the U.S. would be too prepared and too strong to take by surprise, so all plans were shelved indefinitely.
Conclusion
We’ll just have to wait for the novel to see how it would play out. And while the U.S. no longer uses the color-coded war planning system, you can be assured that some kind of very detailed war planning system is in place. I’d love to see it; wouldn’t you?
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War Plan Orange was part of a series of color-coordinated contingency plans. War Plan Orange was specifically outlined by the United States in preparation for fighting a war against Japan alone. Though this plan was first outlined in 1919, it actually served as a template that the United States forces would use during World War II.
Plan Orange formed the foundation for the actual campaign against Japan in World War II and included a pre-war economic blockade of Japan that the U.S. imposed and the plans for interning the Japanese-American population living in the mainland U.S.
Before the U.S. Color Coded War Plans
Early on in our history, the U.S. had prepared plans to deal with a plethora of potential global adversaries. The early war planning agencies were the U.S. Army Academy (West Point) and the U.S. Naval Academy as well. They served as some of the primary war colleges from 1890-1939. It was actually in 1903 that the Joint Army and Navy Board was created to help facilitate better arrangements for the two services working together, on a united front.
Initially, this board was given no independent authority in terms of planning and executing a war, but it did serve as the final review board for war plans that were submitted to it by the authorities from both the army and the navy.
It was after World War I that the Joint Board assembled its own official planning staff. From then on, the board actually had the power to initiate plans itself. The economic constraints that were placed on the military in the between-war eras forced the leaders of both the army and the navy to try to coordinate in ways that they had never done before, even more so than they had to during World War I. After the First World War, the Joint Army and Navy Board began to review all prewar plans to make sure that they were consistent with the world’s current state of affairs. This board was actually the precursor to what would later be established as the Joint Chiefs of Staff.
About US Color Coded War Plans
It was around 1904 that the US started to lay out extensive war plans for each and every country they considered that could potentially pose a threat in the near or distant future. They designed a system of colors and symbols that they used to identify each country, and the respective war plans that they would outline should a war break out between the United States and any of these other global powers. Whether this represented an invasion, uprising, intervention, or full-on war with another country, the US had developed a coordinated system and plans for every conceivable, and even largely inconceivable, war and combat scenarios.
Many of these war plans were created during the 1920s, after the First World War. Even though the United States’ military leaders believed that the majority of these scenarios for war would be extremely unlikely considering the state of global affairs at the time. Higher-ranking officers would use these plans as tools to keep more junior officers not only busier but on their toes as well. They would have them make regular updates to these respective plans for war as the state of affairs around the globe or our relationship with that country would change. This became a critical task for these officers to stay abreast of world affairs at all times, and became even more complicated as the color coordination system was changed over time. This resulted in the changing of certain countries’ colors, which made the system and map more confusing and harder to keep track of.
List of Color-Coded War Plans
The biggest, most elaborate, and most notable war plan was perhaps that of War Plan Black. This was the U.S.’s war plan that they had constructed should they again go to war with Germany. This was created by the board during World War I as a contingency plan in case France was overrun by the Germans, or if the Germans tried to seize the Caribbean, which at the time was under French possession. This plan also detailed a war response to the Germans if they were to attack the eastern seaboard of the United States.
Considerations for War Plan Orange
War Plan Orange was the plan that may have received the most thought and consideration form the United States. This specific plan detailed and coordinated the events following if the United States were to fight Japan on their own. War Plan Orange was outlined unofficially back in 1919. It was officially added to our potential war plans in 1924. What was even more interesting is that War Plan Orange was later used as a framework and reference for the actual campaign that the United States waged against Japan during World War II. It even went to the lengths of outlining the economic blockade that the US would set up from mainland China and the country’s plans for creating internment camps for the Japanese-American population.
Originally, this plan had anticipated a blockade of the Philippines and several other United State’s outposts that were located in the Western Pacific. It planned for those bases to hold out on their own, while the Pacific Fleet gathered their forces in California, preparing to defend against attacks on the Panama Canal. After the Pacific Fleet was mobilized, they would sail over to the Western Pacific to relieve the American troops in the Philippines and Guam. From there, the fleet would plan to sail north to do battle with the Imperial Japanese Navy’s Combined Fleet. After a successful siege, the Pacific Fleet would then Blockade the home islands of Japan.
Japan expected this, however, and developed their own counter-plan to the United States in the event that the Pacific Fleet would mobilize and try to shut them down. This plan included deploying their subs to attack and chip away at the Pacific fleet as they traveled across the Pacific Ocean. After weakening the Pacific Fleet, Japan planned to force a strategic naval battle in their territory.
One of the main reasons that Japan posed such a considerable threat to the United States was that they capitalized on certain opportunities that presented themselves during the First World War. Namely, that they were able to take a strategic military foothold in the Pacific Ocean. Though this could have posed a serious concern to the United States, this fear was put to ease when the Japanese government decided to temporarily halt their program for military expansion.
Multilateral War Plans
One of the other most detailed war plans that the U.S. made during this time was their Red-Orange plan. This outlined if the United States came to war with the Anglo-Japanese Alliance, which came to an end in 1924.
This was the plan that was the most detailed due to the fact that it was the one that concerned the United States forces and military leaders the most. The reason that this was one of the utmost concerns and contingency plans for the United States is that this would demand that they fight a naval war over two oceans between Japan and Britain. Fighting a naval battle on two fronts would have spread the United State’s navy thin, and threatened the war becoming domestic, on U.S. turf.
Actual Events Between the United States and Japan
More or less, the actual events outlined in both the Japanese and the United States plans took place. Though, there were some unexpected events and occurrences on both sides. In the carrier battles, the use of airplanes and submarines far outweighed the action that happened on the surface. The Japanese Navy had expected to be on the attack against the Pacific Fleet, they didn’t plan for defending themselves against American submarines. Therefore, Japan failed to run an effective counter-strategy to the United State’s fleet of submarines. The American subs ended up playing a critical role in paralyzing Japan’s navy along with choking their industrial product and economy.
Conclusion
Though the actual events that transpired during World War II were slightly different from those that were outlined in War Plan Orange, this plan served as an effective military outline for how the US would respond in the face of a threat from Japan. Detailed careful planning like this is what inevitably led to the successes of the United States army and navy during the war.
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Though few think of what World War II would have been like without the US’s role in the war, there was a time when the US was in consideration over whether or not they would get involved. The truth is that before the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor on December 7th, 1941, the American leaders and forces were conflicted over whether they should jump in or if they would be better off staying out of it.
Even with the war expanding into parts of Asia and Europe during the late ’30s and early ’40s, there wasn’t a clear consensus on what the US would decide to do until they were attacked by Japan.
In fact, there were so many factions and groups that were partially or completely opposed to participating in the war at all, both inside and outside of the US. Making the decision to jump into the war was not taken lightly by any of the countries and nations that were either directly or indirectly impacted by World War II.
Fascism in World War II
It was Oswald Mosley and the British Union of Fascists (out of Britain) that were openly opposed to the war. They stated that jumping into another world war with the Germans was not in the best interest of Britain as a nation. They were staunch in their own beliefs that it wasn’t their place to meddle in the affairs that other nations were taking up with Germany and that it was only in their responsibility to fight for “Britain and Britain alone.”
Editorial cartoons of the day often showed that Britain was more in need to prepare their forces for a defensive position against the forces of Japan, and that starting a war with Germany would jeopardize their interests in Asia and divide their efforts. From then on, Mosley dedicated all of the efforts of his party to what he referred to as the “Peace Campaign.” This would be used to call a referendum on the continuation of the war and represent his and his party’s advocating for the negotiation of a peace treaty with Germany and their forces. This campaign ended shortly after when Mosely, as well as many other members of the British Union of Fascists (BUF), were interned under Deference Regulation 18B, during May of 1940.
The Pacifist Perspective
Even though pacifist perspectives aren’t the ones that are usually studied either during or before the Second World War, there were a few organizations and factions that were totally opposed to the war. The Peace Pledge Union maintained their beliefs in opposing all wars. Then, there was the Bruderhof which was a pacifist Christian community that elected to relocate from England into the jungles of Paraguay, as they would rather do that than participate in any effort that contributed to the war.
There was also Mohandas K. Gandhi’s pacifist movement that opposed the war as well. They advocated against the war so aggressively that they even vocalized their belief that the British should surrender. Not only that, but they also proposed that the Jews only offer non-violent resistance to Nazi forces. Conversely, Gandhi still supported using Indian troops and Indian territory in a sensible exchange for the guarantee of Indian independence, that would be promised after the end of the war.
Socialism and the War
What many don’t realize is that Socialism advocates were divided back in the 1930s. Pacifism was an integral part of the socialist movement during this time. In fact, Britain’s Independent Labour Party shared in those pacifist values. Ironically, those pacifist values were also amongst the militant opposition to fascism. During the Popular Front period, the Comintern had allied with some other anti-fascist parties, including certain right-winged parties. The policy was later closed by the Comintern around the time that the Soviet Union signed a nonaggression pact with Hitler. This occurred back in August of 1939.
During the Nazi-Soviet pact, the various Communist front organizations maintained their opposition to the war. This was indirectly following orders from Moscow. However, it was during this time that Joseph Stalin also ordered a series of attacks on:
– Poland
– Finland
– Latvia
– Estonia
– Romania
– And Lithuania
Stalin actually used communist parties and other front groups to hold fast in their opposition to the coming war. Meanwhile, he was gathering military preparations to prepare for war in some involved countries and other countries that would potentially be involved. This was his process for making Britain and France more vulnerable to resisting aggression, as well as a means of keeping the United States out of the war.
The US had its share of peaceful organizations as well that were in opposition to the war. The American Peace Mobilization along with members of the Abraham Lincoln Brigade were in full protest of the war, the Lend-Lease Act, and conscription as well. They did this by attacking the Americans and Roosevelt, saying that he wanted to get a foothold in Europe to take his stake in a warring world so that Wall Street and the American economy might prosper.
Of course, the tune of the communist parties around the world changed when Germany later invaded the Soviet Union in June of 1941. They then became advocates for material support to be sent to Soviet Russia.
There were however a small number of socialist parties, which did not include Communist International members, who continued to stay in opposition to the war. One of the most famously known was Leon Trotsky, who had mapped out a Proletarian Military Policy, calling for industrial action as well as standing in opposition to the war. Anarchists and left-winged communists took a similar position to Trotsky.
The Communist Party of the United States of America (The most popular communist organization in the US) held true to their anti-fascist outlook on intervening throughout the Second World War. They, of course, were basing their policies on the need of a popular front against fascism.
Nationalism and World War II
There were a few nationalist movements in some colonial countries that refused to take part in the war. This notion was probably strongest in India, where some nationalists even went beyond normal opposition to the war. They formed the Indian National Army so that they could fight along with Japanese forces if they needed to.
Meanwhile, in the United States, there were more than 125 African-Americans that were put in prison for protesting against the draft. One of these men was Elijah Muhammad. Many of these individuals associated with the Pacific Movement of the Eastern World or the Nation of Islam. They actually viewed the Japanese as the champions and overlords of the non-white people of the world.
Isolationist Sentiments and the War
Since the United States was separated from the war by thousands of miles of ocean, it was perhaps the easiest of nations to be isolationist about the war. After World War I, there were many Americans that hoped they would be able to sit out on the Second World War. The isolationists in the states were led by the America First Committee. They mounted a loud and large challenge to President Roosevelt’s ambitions to jump into the war. In fact, Charles Lindbergh was one of the most famous isolationists in this movement. This movement was the strongest and most prevalent in the midwest amongst the greater concentrations of German American populations.
Conclusion
All around, there are many communities, organizations, and factions around the globe that were opposed to entering the war. The further Germany got into their conquering and expansion, the more difficult it became for nations to avoid becoming participants into what has been one of the largest international conflicts that the world has ever seen.
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These days, it’s hard to imagine a time when the United States didn’t want to participate in World War 2. Considering how much time, effort, money, and blood we invested in the war, one might assume that we were always ready for a fight.
However, if it weren’t for the bombing of Pearl Harbor by the Japanese in 1941, the U.S. may not have entered the conflict, at least, not until later. While Roosevelt understood the need for American intervention in Europe and Asia, the general public was mostly opposed to fighting someone else’s war.
In this two-part series, we want to look at some of the reasons for this anti-war sentiment pre-Pearl Harbor. While there were many different variables, the primary sources of opposition were:
Isolationism
The U.S. had participated in WW1 and lost thousands of soldiers. Many Americans weren’t eager to go through that again and believed that America’s distance from the front lines precluded it from participation.
Fascism and Anti-Communism
Although this political movement didn’t gain much traction in the U.S., some sympathized with the Nazi party and didn’t want to intervene. Some of these individuals were vehement fascists, while others merely didn’t want the communists to take hold. In those cases, it was understood that Hitler and the Germans weren’t ideal, but they were better than the Red Army marching over Europe.
Pacifism
An even smaller minority of Americans opposed the U.S. entrance into the war out of a belief that all conflict should be abolished. In some instances, this stance was less about the politics of the time (i.e., freedom vs. fascism) and more about sticking to one’s principles. If all war is terrible, then even a “just” war should be avoided at all costs.
Out of these three primary opposition parties, isolationism was by far the most prevalent among Americans. So, we shall start by diving into why so many people felt this way and what they did to prevent the U.S. from entering the war.
World War I: Wilson’s Failing
To understand why a large portion of the population lacked empathy for the war in Europe, we have to look at the impact of World War 1.
Although the war lasted for four years, the United States entered very late in the game. The first wave of U.S. troops landed in Europe in April of 1917, just nineteen months before the conflict ended. However, despite participating in so little action (relatively speaking), America lost over 100,000 troops by the end.
Immediately following the war, President Woodrow Wilson believed that it was America’s destiny to lead the free world into unity to prevent such a global disaster again. He helped form the precursor to the U.N. – the League of Nations. The idea was noble; as long as countries were allied and worked together, war could mostly be avoided.
Ironically, the U.S. Senate disagreed with Wilson and never supported joining the League. While European and Asian powers entered, America never did, nor did it ratify the Treaty of Versailles. As far as most Americans were concerned, the country didn’t have to participate in global affairs. A poll in 1929 found that 70-percent of citizens felt that getting involved in World War One was “a mistake.”
It was this resentment over the war that caused the U.S. government to enact various laws in the 1920s to limit the country’s involvement in international conflict. Some of these regulations also helped reduce America’s stockpile of weapons and munitions. For example, the Kellogg-Briand Peace Pact, an international treaty, said that signatory parties would not resort to war to resolve disputes.
On top of these laws, the United States also sought to curb immigration, with The Emergency Quota Act of 1921 and the Johnson-Reed Act of 1924. As a direct result of these laws, immigration totals were less than 20-percent of pre-WW1 numbers. The pain of the war was too much to bear, and the United States wanted no part in another conflict.
The Great Depression and America’s Neutrality
Further hampering U.S. military action was the Great Depression of the 1930s. After the stock market crashed, war was the furthest thing from anyone’s mind. What mattered most was getting America back to work and avoiding a prolonged economic fallout.
Although most American’s are familiar with the Great Depression at home, the fact is that it had a ripple effect on the global economy. While we won’t get into too much detail here, we can look at some of the broader strokes that led to the rising tide of German and Japanese aggression.
-First, Germany was already in a financial bind, having to pay reparations for WW1. It was able to balance itself out with American loans, which ceased after the stock market crash.
-Without loans, and hyperinflation becoming a considerable problem, the biggest bank in Austria collapsed, which led to a domino-effect of other European banks.
-With money and trade being threatened, more and more countries became isolated, trying to avoid depending on others for financial assistance.
-Resource-rich colonial powers like Britain and France allied with each other, and they were able to pilfer resources from their respective colonies. Non-colonial powers like Italy, Germany, and Japan, had to seek alternatives.
-In trying to retain resources, these countries, particularly Japan, had to use its military strength to annex territories for their own gain.
In the early to mid-1930s, these acts of aggression represented a larger problem. In the U.S., however, isolationism was still going strong. Rather than get involved with international conflicts, America decided to stay neutral. Even as Japan invaded Manchuria, Italy invaded Ethiopia, and Germany built its military, the U.S. didn’t want to intervene.
The Neutrality Act of 1935 prevented the U.S. from sending supplies to any country at war. In 1937, the Act was amended to keep Americans from traveling on ships from war-torn countries. It also allowed the president to determine which nations were hostile and which weren’t. Previously, the Act had stipulated fierce impartiality, which meant that America could potentially delay it’s assistance to the Allied powers even longer.
Isolationism in a Time of War
Once Germany invaded Poland in 1939, France and Britain had no choice but to declare war on behalf of their beleaguered ally. An impromptu poll in the U.S. found that, while the majority of Americans favored Germany’s defeat, an overwhelming majority (90-percent) opposed sending troops to fight. To make matters worse, many of these people also want to avoid conflict if Germany wound up beating France and Britain anyway.
By November of 1939, the U.S. again amended its Neutrality Act to allow warring nations to buy military equipment, as long as they paid cash and carried the arms on their own boats. This policy was known as “cash and carry,” and it was previously limited to non-military supplies. However, Roosevelt knew it wasn’t enough and wanted to convince the country to help defeat Nazi aggression. Unfortunately, two things were standing in his way: The America First Committee and pilot wunderkind Charles Lindbergh.
The America First Committee
This organization was the largest anti-war group in America’s history, and it all started in September of 1940 at Yale Law School. One of its founders was R. Douglas Stuart Jr., son of the man who invented Quaker Oats.
The goal of the AFC was to keep America neutral in matters of European conflicts, and it was born out of a growing concern that the public was leaning towards war. With the fall of France in June of 1940, American sentiment was starting to sway more dramatically, so the founders of the AFC knew they had to act swiftly and defiantly.
During its short-lived tenure (it was disbanded after Pearl Harbor), the America First Committee had some prominent members among its 800,000 strong paying participants. Some notable names included John F. Kennedy, Gerald Ford, Robert E. Wood (of Sears and Roebuck), and auto manufacturer Henry Ford. The AFC was mostly based out of Chicago, although it had chapters throughout the country.
While the AFC was anti-war, it wasn’t complacent about avoiding conflict. Instead, the Committee believed that the United States would be better off by focusing on shoring up its defenses to prevent foreign powers from invading at some point in the future. Yes, Germany might take over and control Europe, but it would never be able to gain a foothold in the U.S.
In addition to building its defenses, the AFC argued that America was weakening itself by lending aid to Britain and France. Not only that but by taking sides in the conflict, U.S. involvement would invariably lead to war no matter what.
The AFC and Roosevelt would be at each other’s throats for the next year and a half, particularly when the president signed the Lend-Lease Bill in March of 1941. This bill allowed the U.S. to send supplies and arms to the Allies in exchange for leases of land for military bases in Europe. The AFC decried Roosevelt’s actions, claiming that he was betraying the American people by pushing them closer to war.
As its figurehead, the AFC had a powerful ally – Charles Lindbergh. Having become world-famous for his transatlantic flight in 1927, Lindbergh had something of an affinity for Germany and the Nazis, although he was never one himself (at least, not publicly).
In Part Two, we’ll discuss how Lindbergh rallied the AFC and opposition parties against Roosevelt, and how the bombing at Pearl Harbor changed everything.
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