Brendan’s Alternate Tagline for 1999:
Unhappy? Blame a 90s kid.
Quick synopsis:
A look at how the culture of 1999 reverberates today.
Fact for Non-History People:
Donald Trump is in the WWE Hall of Fame.
Fact for History Nerds:
In some markets, Jerry Springer was actually beating Oprah in the ratings.
My Take on 1999:
Huh. Perhaps the 90s weren’t a total waste of time. Who knew?
Just kidding! I am after all mostly a product of the 90s. I was born in 1982 which means I didn’t really know what was going on until the final decade of the millennium. Ross Benes makes the argument in his book 1999 that this particular year explains a lot of the messes we have today because Stone Cold says so. If you don’t understand that reference, then I just can’t help you, friend.
I will admit to being slightly insulted by the subtitle: The Year Low Culture Conquered America and Kickstarted Our Bizarre Times. Low culture?! How dare you, Benes! Unfortunately, I found myself basically agreeing with him across the board as he makes his points. I won’t say I agreed with all of his arguments, but Benes is not just writing a nostalgia hit piece. There is some real research and points being made (with sources!). Republicans and Democrats get called out and the media does not emerge unscathed. In some instances, Benes executes a fatality. (Again, if you don’t get the reference then I am sorry, but you won’t understand what is happening in this book.)
As a final test as to whether or not this book is for you, allow me to present a very important list:
1. Jerry Springer
2. GTA (yes, I intentionally am not spelling it out)
3. Vince McMahon
4. ICP (see my note for GTA)
5. Beanie Babies
I would posit that you should know at least three out of five before diving in.
If you are a 90s kid like me, I think you’ll find there are some solid arguments with a healthy dose of nostalgia in this one. Give it a try.
(This book was provided as an advance copy by the author.)
Verdict:
Hit me right in my nostalgia. Buy it here!
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