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Unique biography tells one Southerner’s life story from the Depression Era until the 21st Century
A History of My Journey
From Life on the Farm to Many Adventures Worldwide and Back Home By Samuel Johnson
The 20th century wrought an amazing transformation to life in the Deep South. Changes in technology, the spread of development and the erasure of the traditional lines dividing our country have all but vanquished the dirt-road-and-outhouse stereotypes that persisted in Dixie. Many can speak of how their lives have changed during these turbulent times; but few can boast of actually having an opportunity to participate in, and impact, these changes. One of those few is North Carolina native and former House member, Samuel Johnson. Johnson’s book A History Of My Journey: From Life on the Farm to Many Adventures Worldwide and Back Home is a vividly written, first-hand account of his life in North Carolina, his travel and studies overseas, and in military service. From the simple beginnings as a young boy on a farm during the Depression years to his experiences in the US Navy and Law School at the University of North Carolina to practicing law and becoming a member of the North Carolina General Assembly, Johnson tells it all from his quirky and unique point of view. Johnson’s book is filled with anecdotes from his early years about homemade wine, homemade showers and homemade Brunswick Stew (including recipes), stories about his college and military years, behind-the-scenes insights into the workings of the General Assembly and recollections of interesting legal cases he has encountered over the 50 years as a practicing attorney. But the book is more than the story of just one man’s journey through life; it is a story of determination and success as well as a wonderful piece of regional history. A History Of My Journey: From Life on the Farm to Many Adventures Worldwide and Back Home is an entertaining and captivating read for anyone interested in American -- and especially Southern -- history and culture. Illustrated with pictures of Johnson as a young man, his family and colleagues he worked with during his many years as a practicing attorney, it is as versatile as it is captivating and his story is as personal as it is universal. Those who are left to recall the Depression era are guaranteed to recognize some of Johnson’s early experiences, and younger readers will be inspired by his ambition and drive. About the Author Samuel Johnson is a North Carolina native who has been a practicing attorney in Raleigh for more than 50 years. He received his Bachelor of Arts and his Juris Doctor-Law from the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill and is a U.S. Navy Veteran and graduate of the Naval Research Laboratory in Washington, D.C. Mr. Johnson is a former member of the North Carolina General Assembly and has served as Special Legislative Counsel to Governors Jim Hunt and Jim Martin. Today, he is a Senior Member of Johnson, Hearn, Vinegar, Gee & Glass, PLLC in Raleigh and continues to be active in civic and volunteer services such as the Raleigh Lions Clinic for the Blind, which he supports as a volunteer attorney. Samuel lives with his lovely wife, Anne, and enjoys frequent visits with his children and grandchildren. He and his family take regular trips to their oceanfront villa on the coast of North Carolina.
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