The World’s Fairs that took place in the United States during the Great Depression of the 1930s gave hope to millions and offered visions of future progress. These grand expositions showcased an optimistic, consumerist future.

Designing Tomorrow, edited by Robert Rydell, a professor of history at Montana State University, celebrates the influence of these memorable expositions. Offering an overview of the fairs and detailed discussions of individual works, the book examines how designers reconciled radical “European” Modern style with American tradition.