Charles K. Hyde

Professor building collaborative efforts in the field of history, John Alfred Heitmann is a distinguished faculty member at the University of Dayton. With a keen interest in business history, Professor Heitmann has contributed significantly to the academic community through his insightful analyses and reviews. One of his notable works includes a comprehensive review of Charles K. Hyde's book, "Storied Independent Automakers: Nash, Hudson, and American Motors." In his review, Professor Heitmann delves into Hyde's exploration of the history of these now-defunct automakers. He appreciates Hyde's meticulous tracing of the origins, technological innovations, and economic contributions of Nash, Hudson, and American Motors. Heitmann emphasizes the book's focus on the key individuals who played pivotal roles in shaping the trajectories of these companies, highlighting the human element behind their successes and failures. Professor Heitmann commends Hyde for the book's readability and chronological narrative, which makes it accessible to both scholars and general readers. He argues that Hyde's work fills a significant gap in the literature by providing a critical business history of these important automakers, offering insights that are both informative and engaging. Through his scholarly endeavors, Professor Heitmann continues to enhance the understanding of business history, encouraging a deeper appreciation for the complexities and narratives that have shaped industries over time. His dedication to exploring the intersections of history and business makes him a valuable asset to the University of Dayton and the broader academic community.