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Maxim Gorky: Topics in Chronicling America

In 1906, Russian revolutionary and author, Maxim Gorky visited the United States to acclaim, but left due to scandal. This guide provides access to materials related to “Maxim Gorky” in the Chronicling America digital collection of historic newspapers.

Introduction

"Maxim Gorky, from an intimate portrait study of the famous novelist made a few weeks ago." July 15, 1906. The Minneapolis Journal (Minneapolis, MN), Image 9. Chronicling America: Historic American Newspapers.

Touring the United States with his beautiful mistress, Russian author and revolutionist Maxim Gorky’s scandal hits the American press, shocking friends and society. Evicted from New York hotels and having most of his speaking tour cancelled, the dashing “polygamous” hero is mobbed by women at every lecture. Read more about it!

The information in this guide focuses on primary source materials found in the digitized historic newspapers from the digital collection Chronicling America.

The timeline below highlights important dates related to this topic and a section of this guide provides some suggested search strategies for further research in the collection.

Timeline

April 10, 1906 Gorky arrives in the United States.
April 14, 1906 US newspapers allege Gorky sex scandal with Russian actress.
May 14, 1906 Gorky addresses a large unruly crowd in Brooklyn.
July 15, 1906 Gorky publishes negative impressions of American society.
July 28, 1906 Gorky issues a public appeal to the American Public to provide assistance to the Russian People.
September, 1906 H.G. Wells publishes comments about Gorky’s visit to the United States.
October 13, 1906 Gorky sails from Hoboken, New Jersey.