John George Hovan was a member of the Abraham Lincoln Brigade, a group of American volunteers who fought against fascist forces during the Spanish Civil War. After fighting in the Spanish Civil War, and then later, in World War II, Hovan returned to America where settled in Rhode Island and held a variety of jobs. He was questioned in front of congress as a part of McCarthy-era red-scare hysteria for his participation in the Spanish Civil War. As one of the last surviving Americans who fought with the Abraham Lincoln Brigade, John Hovan signed his honorific Spanish Citizenship papers on July 9, 2009.
There are no restrictions on access, except that the collection can only be seen by prior appointment. Some materials may be stored off-site and cannot be produced on the same day on which they are requested.
Although Brown University has physical ownership of the collection and the materials contained therein, it does not claim literary rights. Researchers should note that compliance with copyright law is their responsibility. Researchers must determine the owners of the literary rights and obtain any necessary permissions from them.
John Hovan collection, Ms. 2010.018, Brown University Library.
The John Hovan Collection is a selection of materials primarily related to the activities of the Communist Party in the U.S. (CPUSA), during the Cold War. Materials include brochures, pamphlets, books, official correspondence, and advertisements promoting recruitment for and the general activities of the CPUSA.
The folders are arranged alphabetically.
Gift of John Hovan, 13 May 2003 (A2010-006).