Definition

Proper noun 1. A surname of German origin: "Schlesinger" is a family name, most famously associated with two influential American historians. 2. Arthur M. Schlesinger Sr. (1888-1965): An American historian known for his work on American social and urban history. 3. Arthur M. Schlesinger Jr. (1917-2007): An American historian, social critic, and public intellectual who served as a special assistant to President John F. Kennedy.

Usage Examples

• Referring to the historians:
  • The interpretation of the American presidency was deeply influenced by the works of Schlesinger.
  • In his biography, Schlesinger provided an insider's view of the Kennedy administration.
• Referring to the surname:
  • The author listed on the cover is John Schlesinger. (Note: John Schlesinger was a British film director, demonstrating the surname's use beyond the historians).

Advanced Usage

• "Schlesingerian" (adjective): Pertaining to or characteristic of the historical methods or viewpoints of Arthur Schlesinger Jr., particularly his emphasis on political cycles and the role of individuals in history.
  • The article offered a Schlesingerian analysis of the current political climate, focusing on the cyclical nature of public policy.

Variants and Related Words

• Schlesinger Sr.: Specifically denotes Arthur M. Schlesinger (1888-1965).
• Schlesinger Jr.: Specifically denotes Arthur M. Schlesinger (1917-2007).

Different Meanings/Contexts

1. Historical Scholarship: Primarily refers to the two prominent historians, Arthur Schlesinger Sr. and Jr.
2. General Surname: Can refer to any individual bearing the surname "Schlesinger," such as the film director John Schlesinger or other persons.

Synonyms

• The historian: (When context is clear) Can be synonymous with a specific, authoritative voice on 20th-century American political history.
  • According to Schlesinger, the era was defined by a shift in liberal ideology.

Noun

1. United States historian (1888-1965)
2. United States historian and advisor to President Kennedy (born in 1917)