Haytoug.org
March 27 2010

`Yes We Have’: Stories of Armenian-American Discoveries

March 27, 2010 by Ani Nalbandian

Book Review By Ani Nalbandian

Stepan Partamian’s `Yes We Have’ is not a single story but a
compilation of various stories about the incredible Armenians who
changed American history through their inventions, discoveries and
talents. Partamian compiled over one hundred stories of influential
Armenian-Americans starting from the first Armenian colonists who
settled in Jamestown.

The multi-faceted Partamian is also the founder of the Armenian Arts
Fund, which encourages people to enhance their artistic ability in
various ways. He is perhaps best known as a flamboyant and
controversial daytime talk show host.

When opening to the first page of the book I was stunned to see a
picture of President Obama instead of a picture of the author or a
famous Armenian. Under the picture of 44th President of the United
States, Barrack Obama, was a section of his April 24th Armenian
Genocide commemoration speech. In his speech he states, `The United
States of America is a far richer country because of the many
Americans of Armenian descent who have contributed to our society¦’
This first page set a very nationalistic and enthusiastic tone to the
rest of the book.

`Yes We Have’ includes stories of inventors, musicians, actors and
actresses, businessmen and women, war heroes, politicians, scientists,
and authors. I found myself learning about countless amazing
contributions to American society made by Armenian-Americans.

This is an attention grabbing, page-turner that is very successful in
keeping the reader’s attention because it not only includes well known
Armenian-Americans’ stories, but also the lesser-known influential
Armenians such as Luther G. Simjian who invented the ATM machine.

I would have to say this book was a complete joy to read and I
guarantee everyone and anyone who reads it will be surprised and
gratified by the incredible things Armenians have contributed to
America, I know I was.

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