Howard Zinn, a prominent historian, was influenced significantly by his working-class background and experiences as a World War II bombardier. His commitment to social justice and critique of traditional narratives in history stemmed from his understanding of power dynamics and inequality in society. Zinn's major work, *A People's History of the United States*, reflects his belief that history should be told from the perspective of the oppressed. His activism and teaching experiences further informed his approach, encouraging a more inclusive understanding of history that challenges prevailing conventions and emphasizes the voices of marginalized groups.