Nat Schachner, American lawyer, chemist, and author (d. 1955)

Nathaniel Schachner: A Dual Legacy in Science Fiction and Historical Biography

Nathaniel "Nat" Schachner (January 16, 1895 – 1955) stands as a distinctive figure in American letters, celebrated for his contributions across two vastly different literary domains: the imaginative realms of early science fiction and the meticulously researched chronicles of American history. Originally trained as a lawyer, Schachner's analytical mind and profound intellectual curiosity allowed him to transition from crafting speculative tales during the vibrant pulp era to becoming a respected biographer of pivotal early American historical figures.

Pioneering Science Fiction in the Pulp Era

Schachner's literary journey commenced in the burgeoning field of science fiction, a genre then largely dominated by "pulp magazines." His initial foray into published fiction began with "The Tower of Evil," a collaborative effort with fellow author Arthur Leo Zagat. This story made its debut in the Summer 1930 issue of *Wonder Stories Quarterly*, a foundational publication edited by Hugo Gernsback, widely regarded as the "Father of Science Fiction." This magazine, alongside others like *Astounding Stories*, was crucial in shaping the early landscape of the genre.

His early career was marked by prolific output and strategic use of pseudonyms. While his first eleven stories were notably co-written with Zagat, illustrating a common collaborative practice in the fast-paced pulp industry, Schachner later branched out. He published numerous works under his own name, Nathaniel Schachner, but also adopted compelling aliases such as "Chan Corbett" and "Walter Glamis" to distinguish his varied genre fiction, a common strategy for authors publishing multiple stories in the same issue or across different publications.

Despite his extensive output of short stories, Schachner's science fiction novelography in book form is notably concise, featuring only one title: *Space Lawyer* (1953). This innovative novel, which originally captivated readers in *Astounding Science Fiction* in 1941, uniquely blends Schachner's legal background with futuristic concepts. It explores the complexities of interstellar law and justice, a theme that undoubtedly benefited from his professional training as an attorney.

Transition and Triumph in Historical Biography

Around a decade into his science fiction career, Schachner began a significant pivot towards historical non-fiction, a move that would ultimately define his most enduring legacy. His training as a lawyer, coupled with an undergraduate degree, provided him with a rigorous analytical framework that proved invaluable for historical research and exposition. This period saw a gradual decline in his science fiction output after 1941. This shift may have been influenced by the evolving expectations of the editorial and reading public within the science fiction genre—as the "Golden Age" matured, the demand for more sophisticated narratives grew—or, more directly, by his increasing dedication to his burgeoning historical works.

It was in the realm of biography that Schachner achieved his most profound critical and popular success. He penned a substantial number of historical novels and several authoritative biographies of early American political figures. His magnum opus in this field is undoubtedly his two-volume work on Thomas Jefferson. This comprehensive biography, lauded for its meticulous research and engaging narrative, remains a significant contribution to the understanding of one of America's most complex founding fathers, showcasing Schachner's ability to delve deeply into primary sources and present historical events with compelling clarity.

Military Service and Enduring Influence

Beyond his literary pursuits, Schachner served his country during World War I, contributing to the war effort in the US military's Chemical Warfare Service, specifically within the Gas and Flame Division. This experience highlights another dimension of his life, reflecting the profound global conflicts of his era.

His impact on the literary community extended even to future titans of the genre. Notably, Nat Schachner was counted among Isaac Asimov's favorite authors. Asimov, a prolific and highly influential science fiction writer himself, often spoke of his admiration for Schachner's work, particularly his ability to integrate detailed, believable premises, a testament to Schachner's ingenuity and foresight in storytelling.

Frequently Asked Questions About Nathaniel Schachner

Who was Nathaniel Schachner?
Nathaniel "Nat" Schachner was an American author (1895-1955) known for his prolific contributions to both early science fiction and historical biography, particularly focusing on early American figures.
What pseudonyms did Nat Schachner use?
For his genre fiction, Nat Schachner notably used the pseudonyms "Chan Corbett" and "Walter Glamis."
Was Nat Schachner a lawyer?
Yes, Nathaniel Schachner was trained as a lawyer and held an undergraduate degree, a background that influenced his meticulous research in historical works and provided unique insights for his science fiction novel, *Space Lawyer*.
What was Schachner's first published story?
His first published story was "The Tower of Evil," co-written with Arthur Leo Zagat, which appeared in the Summer 1930 issue of *Wonder Stories Quarterly*.
What is his most notable historical work?
His most acclaimed historical work is his comprehensive two-volume biography on the life of Thomas Jefferson, praised for its depth and historical accuracy.
Did Isaac Asimov admire Nat Schachner's work?
Yes, Isaac Asimov, a prominent science fiction author, considered Nat Schachner to be one of his favorite writers.
Why did Nat Schachner stop writing science fiction?
While he did not entirely stop, his science fiction output declined after 1941. This is attributed to a possible shift in editorial and public expectations within the evolving science fiction genre, and more significantly, to the increasing time and focus he dedicated to his successful career in historical biography.