An American Martyr in Persia

The Epic Life and Tragic Death of Howard Baskerville

De: Reza Aslan

Narrado por: Reza Aslan

The #1 New York Times best-selling author of Zealot recounts the spellbinding tale of an unrecognized American martyr for democracy.

As a student of Woodrow Wilson at Princeton, Howard Baskerville was aflame not only with the gospel of Jesus, but with the Wilsonian gospel that constitutional democracy is the birthright of all nations. Rather than become a small-town minister like his father in South Dakota, he volunteered for missionary service in Persia.

Tabriz in 1907 was a hotbed of democratic revolution. Brilliant young firebrands were among Baskerville’s students at the Presbyterian school—and became his devoted friends. He lectured on freedom; they dedicated their lives to it. Soon he would join them on the battlefield.

Was Howard Baskerville the “American Lafayette” of Iran, or a naive “white savior” stumbling into Persian affairs? Baskerville’s story, like his life, is at the center of a whirlwind, in which Americans must ask themselves, how seriously do we take our ideals of constitutional democracy and whose freedom do we support?

©2022 Reza Aslan (P)2022 Recorded Books

Mind blowing story

This is a fascinating story! It is so much more than a story about one man. It is a story of a people and their national heartbeat. Aslan is a masterful storyteller. At times it felt like an episode of game of thrones, and at times I felt these people where my family and friends, all the while keeping true to a historical approach. The insight into the history of a nation currently in such conflict is valuable.

Absolutely heart wrenching

This is an amazing, sadly little known, story of an American’s sacrifice in the name of freedom.

Didn't plan on listening to this one...

but the author was in town for a book signing so I downloaded it and then couldn't stop listening to it. As a 5th generation Presbyterian, I was expecting this to be more about the history of the early Presbyterian missionary experience in Persia. Dr. Aslan definitely did his research on the missonary school and it was interesting enough, but he really brought to life the Persian revolution that Baskerville found himself in the midst of upon his arrival. I learned a lot. Another fabulous book by Reza Aslan. His book signing/lecture was great, too. He's a good speaker.

Heroic Story of Selfless Sacrifice

This was a very well written account, one of the first about the life and times of Howard Baskerville. It was well researched, written, and narrated by Reza Aslan. We are the recipients of a message about compassion for our fellow men, standing against oppression, and when faith leaves the pulpit/classroom into the streets and valleys of suffering. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ from me!

A sweet story that was kind of difficult to follow

Lots of history involving the Persian constitutional revolution which is fascinating, I'm sure, but with so many characters it was difficult to follow the various actors and their motivations. The actual story of Howard Baskerville was sweet and unique and interesting to see the convictions of a young man leading his actions.