TED-Ed: Does "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz" have a hidden message? - David B. Parker

In 1963, Henry Littlefield proposed that 'The Wizard of Oz' was an allegory for the Gilded Age, linking characters and events in the book to historical figures and movements like populism. His theory gained traction, sparking scholarly debate and alternative interpretations. While some see it as a critique of capitalism, others view it as a celebration of urban culture. The true intent of L. Frank Baum remains uncertain, but the story's enduring relevance is clear.

What inspired Henry Littlefield to use 'The Wonderful Wizard of Oz' in his history class?

• He was a fan of L. Frank Baum.

• He wanted to teach literature instead of history.

• He saw parallels between the book and the Gilded Age.

• He wanted to entertain his students.

Which character in 'The Wonderful Wizard of Oz' did Littlefield associate with the farmers of the late 19th century?

• Dorothy

• The Scarecrow

• The Cowardly Lion

• The Tin Woodman

What was the significance of Dorothy's silver shoes in Littlefield's interpretation?

• They had no particular significance.

• They were a fashion statement.

• They symbolized the farmers' desire to add silver to the gold standard.

• They represented the gold standard.

By the 1980s, how was 'The Wonderful Wizard of Oz' commonly interpreted in American history textbooks?

• As a simple children's story.

• As a critique of American capitalism.

• As a biography of L. Frank Baum.

• As a guide to urban development.

What alternative interpretation of 'The Wonderful Wizard of Oz' do some recent scholars propose?

• It is a critique of rural life.

• It celebrates the new urban consumer culture.

• It is a guide to political activism.

• It is a religious allegory.