Restless Spirits and Popular Movements

What is the Vermont Way?

The term has been used to describe everything from the traditional way of making maple syrup to an ability to create something out of nothing. But this small state's story is also the tale of rebellious individuals and collective outbursts, people and moments that have forged a unique path, preserving traditions while changing with the times.

Restless Spirits & Popular Movements revisits Vermont history through memorable events and people who helped create its delicate balance of sovereignty and solidarity, political independence and mutual aid. It explores the evolution and values of the Green Mountain State through the exploits of revolutionary leaders and feminist pioneers, activists and tycoons, Vermont-born presidents, progressive innovators and modern trailblazers like Phil Hoff, Richard Snelling, Madeleine Kunin, James Jeffords, Howard Dean, and Bernie Sanders.

Recasting the state's dramatic narrative, this new Vermont history reclaims many of the stories that have been lost or forgotten along the way.

Greg Guma grew up in New York City and moved to Vermont in 1968. He has a B.S. from Syracuse University and an M.Ed. from the University of Vermont. He has been a journalist, editor, educator and administrator, a community organizer, bookstore owner, novelist, and CEO of a national broadcast network.