Product Description
Excellent study by distinguished historian examines lives and work of American craftsmen in the years before the Revolution—cabinetmakers, silversmiths, pewterers, printers, painters, engravers, blacksmiths, button-makers, shipwrights, many more. "... a fascinating study not only of the work of the 18th-century American artisan but of his place in pre-Revolutionary society"—The New Yorker. 18 illustrations. References.
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Product Description

This text presents a carefully selected group of readings organized to allow students to evaluate primary sources, test the interpretations of distinguished historians, and draw their own conclusions. Each chapter includes introductions, source notes, and suggested readings.

Customer Reviews (2)

Numerous short selections, somewhat uneven
I decided to use this book as a supplementary reader for my history class emphasizing the importance of religion on American political, economic and social development. The work contains a number of good essays and many short primary selections on the topic but is somewhat uneven.For example, there is little material on the effect of religion on the reform impulse prior to the Civil War except for the abolitionist movement.Nevertheless, I decided it was the best book available for the class.

No Major Problems for this book!
much better than anything i would have picked up used from my school's bookstore. and SO much cheaper. i would 100% order my books from you again, and probably will next semester. ... Read more

Product Description

Updated to include events through the year 2000, the Millennial Edition of The Timetables of American History -- an entertaining, authoritative survey of our nation's history, presented in the popular Timetables format -- not only chronicles the events occurring in American politics, arts, science, and technology, but relates them to simultaneous developments throughout the rest of the world. From breakthroughs in the sciences to breakdowns in international relations, from the heroes who mastered the playing fields to masterpieces of art and literature, The Timetables provides a comprehensive account of the march of civilization.

The Timetables of American History is an invaluable resource for serious students and dabblers alike. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

Not recommended for comprehensive or detailed histories.
I picked up this history as a review aid for my graduate comprehensive exams. A good timetable can be useful for basic inclusion of terms. This however, is not a good timeline on any level. At best, it commits a few oversights; at worst, it will lead students astray and cause a very outdated education in history.

Even people who rail against political correctness can acknowledge that ethnic minorities and women have contributed in the same spheres as men throughout American history. Yet, the few contributions of women and ethnic minorities in this timeline are usually relegated to the "Miscellaneous" category. This is not always so; but if the accomplishments of male military veterans are placed in "History and Politics," why are female military veterans from the same year placed in "Miscellaneous"? Why is the 1983 apology for Japanese-American internment included, but the actual internment and Roosevelt's order are missing entirely? When American Indians are allowed to enter the dialogue, it is only by their interaction with whites - and even then, it is mostly as an object of annihilation. When Amerindians are fighting whites, they are "on the warpath," a troubling racist term - which I was ready to dismiss as merely antiquated until I saw the many references to "a black" achieving some office, which seemed also odd to me.

References to women's and minority history is also poorly-researched. Did Seneca Falls take place in 1848, or 1850? The book lists both, but neither are in the index. Why no mention of the term "feme covert," which might help students remember why early colonial women were disenfranchised? Were Harriet Tubman, Frederick Douglass, and Cesar Chavez AWOL when it came time to mention their enormous contributions? Of course, white abolitionist and agricultural movements are mentioned copiously. Amendments to the Constitution get to be in the History and Politics section - except the Nineteenth, which is "miscellaneous." Because it gives women the right to vote, it is in the same category asJim Thorpe and horse racing.

I do not believe a historian can in good conscience commit these grievous errors. And that is just it: This book was not written or updated by historians, nor was it peer-reviewed by other historians. I do not say that the layperson or the journalist is incapable of writing a good history, I find lay histories invaluable to my work. But a competent scholarly awareness of history, whether undertaken formally or informally, should be a prerequisite for a book calling itself a reference work. If the authors and updaters are claiming the responsible exercise of history, they do not display it, and this book could have used a great deal of review before deciding that Alfred Hitchcock merited 7 separate entries, while Sacagawea deserves none at all.

Loaded with Interesting Facts but a bit of a Lightweight
For a light read this book is ok, and one can get lost reading it to pass the time. Those looking for a bit more will be disappointed. The facts are listed by year, but the actual date of the event is not given. A big draw back to me. The facts they picked were interresting, but I thought they would have included other events, but one can find this in any book on history. For a general read, this book is fine. For a history reference book, you'll need to look else where.

great book
A great way to get those history facts organized in one's head. Lots of every day facts and events, but lots of little known information as well.

The Timetables of American History, updated edition
A wonderfully concise look at American History in respect to other happenings around the globe. I read this book at our local library and was so impressed with it that I decided to order it from Amazon.com! ... Read more

Product Description
Highly-respected for its impeccable scholarship and elegant writing style, American History: A Survey provides students and instructors with a comprehensive account of the American past in which no single approach or theme predominates.From its first edition, this text has included a scrupulous account of American political and diplomatic history. Today, however, the book explores areas of history such as social, cultural, urban, racial and ethnic history, more history of the West and South, environmental history, and the history of women and gender.In addition, American history has not evolved in a vacuum, but as part of a larger global world. The eleventh edition of this text places American history into that global context, making connections for students who live in an ever-expanding world themselves. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

Alright
The book had a loootttt more highlighting than I had expected it to have. The cover and spine were in good shape though (:

More than expected!
The book came in within 10 days, which is surprising for its weight. I was really excited to see it come in. When I opened it, it was more than I expected! There were no highlights or anything, and that's what I wanted. Although it's a little water logged, I still like it.

Thanks!

Interesting and Informative
Alan Brinkley's "American History: A Survey" was the textbook used in my 11th grade A.P. U.S. History class. It was the first history book I was ever required to read that I actually enjoyed. Brinkley presents different viewpoints and can hold your attention. I would definatly recommend it for A.P. U.S. History teachers as well as U.S. History professors. If you read this book throughly and thoughtfully, you more than likely will make a passing grade on the APUSH exam.

Wow- a history book??
I was never one to enjoy history much until my college history class used this book for the main text.I found this book great reading (interesting and kept my attention most of the time).I must say that after that class and this book, I have become much more interested in aspects of history.This book is wonderful and I would recommend it to any college professor of history or high school student with even a slight interest in history!

Excellent History Book
This is the most detailed and longest history book I have ever read. Although it is a tad too long for high school students, it covers a lot of infomation for the AP History test. For you AP History teachers, I would recommend that you should teach from this book. It helps prepare the students for their AP test. ... Read more

Product Description

This collection, designed to be the primary anthology or textbook for courses in Asian American history, covers the subject's entire chronological span. The volume presents a carefully selected group of readings that requires students to evaluate primary sources, test the interpretations of distinguished historians, and draw their own conclusions.

Product Description
America's past is full of politics as well as personal stories. That's why Conlin's THE AMERICAN PAST: A SURVEY OF AMERICAN HISTORY teaches history the way it happened: real people with real stories. Through short narratives from political figures' lives, you'll discover how our nation grew from a colonial project to an international superpower. And along the way, you'll also get an inside look at the influence that women and minority groups have had on our nation's history. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

boring and doesn't explain critical events well
textbook was awful.it was extremely unclear and emphasized trivial stuff over critical events; didn't emphasize main concepts. long and convoluted although it does make a futile (pathetic) attempt to be entertaining. ew.
i almost threw up reading about WWII not because it was terrible but because i had to read the same paragraph over and over again to understand what was happening. and the description of the vietnam war was so bad i don't think i gained anything from it. if not for an awesome professor i would have been toast.

(please excuse my lack of caps)

Fast service
Very good book for history students, but an extra source for back up dates, names, and information is also needed to tie together the many threads presented here.

Witty and engaging; Not your usual textbook
Joseph R. Conlin has managed to produce a college textbook that provides more than the usual dry recitation of information.His intelligent sense of humor and subtle wit make each chapter an engaging read, and make this nation's history come to life, peopled with characters that you would love to meet.
Mr. Conlin also goes to great lengths to ensure that the history revealed is not just from the white, European perspective.Native American and African-American stories and influence are interwoven, as are the stories of the many other cultures who have contributed to our nation's heritage.
While many might groan at the thought of reading an entry-level survey textbook for pleasure, Mr. Conlin's efforts make the read an enjoyable introduction to our nation's colorful history. ... Read more

Product Description
A NEW PERSPECTIVE ON NATIVE AMERICAN HISTORY:
A CHRONOLOGICAL ACCOUNT OF ITS PLACE ON THE WORLD STAGE.
Native American History is a breakthrough reference guide, the first book of its kind to recognize and explore the rich, unfolding experiences of the indigenous American peoples as they evolved against a global backdrop. This fascinating historical narrative, presented in an illuminating and thought-provoking time-line format, sheds light on such events as:
* The construction of pyramids--not only on the banks of the Nile but also on the banks of the Mississippi
* The development of agriculture in both Mesopotamia and Mexico
* The European discovery of a continent already inhabited by some 50 million people
* The Native American influence on the ideas of the European Renaissance
* The unacknowledged advancements in science and medicine created by the civilizations of the new world
* Western Expansion and its impact on Native American land and traditions
* The key contributions Native Americans brought to the Allied victory of World War II
And much more!
This invaluable history takes an important first step toward a true understanding of the depth, breadth, and scope of a long-neglected aspect of our heritage.
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Customer Reviews (7)

Chronology of Native American History
If you want to learn about what was going on in the world of Native American Indians this has a timeline that contrasts world history and Native American History. This book is good but I would have liked more detail in the discriptions of the timeline. Perhaps a reference companion to this book be a helpful asset.

objective
Judith Nies presents an excellent overview of both native american and european events as they parallel and eventually coincide with one another. Until reading her book, I was unaware of the extent of the brutality of the hispanic history towards the natives of all the areas of the americas; their responsibility for the genocide of millions of natives through a combination of enslavement, warfare and disease, creating a world where the natives preferred to kill their children and commit suicide rather than to continue to live.This is followed by a second tragedy, the establishment of the african slave trade to replace what they destroyed.Perhaps what is most effective in her writing is the objective and factual presentation of a complete history, free of personal or cultural bias.Recommended reading for anyone.

great referrence book
like the title says, it's a great referrence book for those who wish for a brief overview of native history in the present-day united states as well as much of mesoamerica. good starting off point for further investigation.the great thing about the book is that it not only is a chronology ofnative events (which appear on the right side of a page), it also displaysmany significant events throughout the world (which appear on the left sideof a page) so the reader may gain a greater perspective. also includesshort articles thrown in for good measure and to expand a bit on topicssuch as the iroquois influence on the u.s. constitution, to tenochtitlan(present-day mexico city, site of ancient aztec capital), as well as briefintroductions to certain time periods. not a thorough examination, but anice listing of significant events in native history.recommendednonetheless.

A Very Educational Book on Native Americans
Many Americans have some Indian Ancestry.We need a book such as this to give us an accurate view of history, and recognize the accomplishments and the tragedies of the Native Americans.Judith Nies did the world a greatservice by documenting these events in an easy to follow format.

Should be required reading
This book should be required reading, at least for any member of the government who has dealings with Native Americans, if not for every American History class in the country. It is a bit dry stylistically, whichis all that keeps it from five stars, but it contains an amazing wealth ofinformation that balances out the general viewpoint of American history asit is taught in public schools. It should be considered an invaluable assetin any attempt to present a balanced perspective on our country's history.Ignoring the criminally dishonorable way in which those of European descenthave treated the Natives will NOT make it go away, nor even lessen thekarmic debt. Only by learning about and acknowledging the truth can we evenBEGIN to decide what steps need to be taken now and in the future. ... Read more

Product Description
In rethinking and reframing the American national narrative in a wider context, the contributors to this volume ask questions about both nationalism and the discipline of history itself. The essays offer fresh ways of thinking about the traditional themes and periods of American history. By locating the study of American history in a transnational context, they examine the history of nation-making and the relation of the United States to other nations and to transnational developments. What is now called globalization is here placed in a historical context.
A cast of distinguished historians from the United States and abroad examines the historiographical implications of such a reframing and offers alternative interpretations of large questions of American history ranging from the era of European contact to democracy and reform, from environmental and economic development and migration experiences to issues of nationalism and identity. But the largest issue explored is basic to all histories: How does one understand, teach, and write a national history even as one recognizes that the territorial boundaries do not fully contain that history and that within that bounded territory the society is highly differentiated, marked by multiple solidarities and identities?
Rethinking American History in a Global Age advances an emerging but important conversation marked by divergent voices, many of which are represented here. The various essays explore big concepts and offer historical narratives that enrich the content and context of American history. The aim is to provide a history that more accurately reflects the dimensions of American experience and better connects the past with contemporary concerns for American identity, structures of power, and world presence. ... Read more

Product Description
This debate-style reader is designed to introduce students to controversies in American history through readings that reflect a variety of viewpoints. Each issue is framed with an issue summary, an issue introduction, and a postscript. Taking Sides is supported by our student Web site, Dushkin Online (www.dushkin.com/online/). ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Don't ever purchase here - did not deliver
This book was one of many ordered for my son's online class.We have not received this book and are two weeks beyond last possible delivery date.All the other books were delivered very quickly - within days of order even though we didn't rush mail them.I will never use this supplier again and recommend others do not.

American History, Volume I (Taking Sides: Clashing Views on Controversial Issues in American History)
Good Book

An in-depth look at issues from both sides.
Taking Sides is a great way to find out more about contraversial issues from the period of Reconstructin to the Present.It dives into issues suchas whether or not women of the nineteenth-century overcame the hardships ofthe west; if Booker T. Washington's philosophy and actions betray theinterests of Afican-Americans; if the 1950's were America's "happydays", and much more.This great book reveals both sides to theissues.Your stand is not suede, but you are able to make your owndecision. ... Read more

Product Description
The 8th edition of this notably successful college text. The concise nature of the Synopsis makes it easily comparible with the instructor's course emphases.Available in a complete or two-volume edition. ... Read more

Product Description
If you've ever found American history boring or hard to understand, this book is for you. Inside, a bright, curious student poses questions about American history, and a kind, knowledgeable teacher answers them. Nothing escapes the student's inquisitive mind, and the teacher is endlessly patient. Kinds of questions posed: One if by land and two if by sea? How could the Redcoats come by land when there's no land between England and America? Were there really witches in Salem? What does "tyranny" mean? What's a "legislature"? What does "separation of church and state" mean? What does "amnesty" mean? Topics include: Discovery of America, The French and Indian War, The Revolutionary War, The Constitution, The Launching of the Nation, The Age of Jefferson, The War of 1812, The Age of Jackson. Personalities include: Benjamin Franklin, George Washington, John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, Alexander Hamilton, Paul Revere, James Madison, James Monroe, Andrew Jackson. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

There are better ways to present info than ten pound text books
There are better ways to present info than ten pound text books. "Conversations in Early American History 1492-1837: A Comprehensive Question and Answer Guide" is an exciting read on the history of America through an engrossing question and answer format that asks countless questions about America, its early days, colonial times, and the American Revolution. Utterly fascinating and educational in a quick-paced, easy-to-follow format, "Conversations in Early American History" is highly recommended reading.

This book makes learning fun and exciting!
I've been reading this book with my son and we both are actually enjoying it while feeling we are learning things about American History we had only a vague idea about.It is written in a compelling and really insightful manner. It is so clearly articulated, in this brilliant conversational style (it is actually a conversation between a student and his teacher), that we are amazed at how much we have learned by the end of each chapter. It is such a joy to find a book that makes learning pleasurable, the way I personally always thought learning ideally should be. Thank you Mark Phillips for writing Conversations in Early American History. ... Read more

Product Description
Originally released in 1990, "The New American History", edited for the American Historical Association by Eric Foner, has become an indispensable volume for teachers and students. In essays that chart the shifts in interpretation within their fields, some of our most prominent American historians survey the key works and themes in the scholarship of the last three decades. Along with substantially revised essays from the first edition, this volume presents three entirely new ones - on intellectual history, the history of the West, and the histories of the family and sexuality. The second edition of "The New American History" reflects, in Foner's words, 'the continuing vitality and creativity of the study of the past, how traditional fields are being expanded and redefined even as new ones are created'.Author note: Eric Foner is DeWitt Clinton Professor of History at Columbia University. He is the author of numerous books, including "Reconstruction, 1863-1877", which was awarded the Bancroft Prize. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

The "Somewhat New" American History
This collection of essays probably merits 3.5 stars because it actually does live up to its title; it presents a collection of essays covering "The New American History." I refer to it as somewhat new because, as has always been the case in "American" history, the story of people of color and women gets short shrift. The essays were originally compiled to expose high school history teachers to the latest historical research and interpretations going on in particular subject areas in an effort to keep them abreast of the changes in historical philosophy, approach, and perspective. It illustrates these current trends by presenting 16 essays with titles such as, "Society, Politics, and the Market Revolution, 1815-1848", "Slavery, Civil War, and Reconstruction","Intellectual and Cultural History", and "The History of the Family and the History of Sexuality." Of the 16 essays, only two deal with African-American history, 1 deals with ethnicity and immigration, and only 1 is about women. While the book leans toward social history, which is the current historical wave, and consciously points to the fact that the old approaches to American history (the exclusive study of white, male, wealthy, political and military leaders) needed revising, it short-changes blacks, women, and other people of color just as the old American history does. With that said, 4 out of 16 is 25% which, unfortunately, might be a little more history of "others" than most middle-aged Americans were ever exposed to. This book is still good for anyone, particularly any high school history teacher, who needs to understand that history is constructed, open to interpretation, and ever evolving. And the historical references at the end of each chapter are almost worth the price of the book alone. Get it if you think you need it.

The current state of Historical Scholarship
This is really an invaluable book for history scolars as it lays out the "current state" of U.S. history in a multitude of topics.

Admittedly, I went to a left leaning University a few years ago but almost all of my classes came almost straight from the essays in this book so it might not be entirely represetative of the state of historical debate.

I foudn the most interesting parts of the book to be the historiorahpic analysis--that is, how the study of a particuolar subject has changed over years with the times. For example, until the civil rights movement of the 1960's, the reconstruction period of the 1860's and 70's was seen as an unmitigated disaster where uncompetant freedmen were set up in governments to run the south with Northern military support. This interpretation of course served a country that still had segregated lunchcounters in 1960. However, recently, a much more nuanced interpretation has appeared led by such writers as Eric Foner (the writer of the chapter on Reconstruction) who place their own gloss on the Reconstruction movement which was undoubtedly infulenced by their own participation and sympathy with the "new left" movements of the 1960's.

Also useful is each author cites the leading books in the field for their argument so it can produce a great reading list for any history buff that wishes to delve deeper into a particular subject. ... Read more

Product Description
This book tackles the messy details, reclaims disregarded heroes, and sets the record straight. It also explains why July 4th isn't really Independence Day. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (25)

One section was enough for me to read...
I would NOT recommend this book if this section is any indication of the rest of the book.

I saw this in a bookstore the other day and decided to take a quick look.I flipped to the back and saw there is a section about Pocahontas - someone I have read many scholarly books about over the past 16 years.I read it and had a headache by the end of it.It was wildly inaccurate.Yes there are some things I had issue with just because of phrasing, but I could overlook most of them.But there are also MANY factual errors throughout that just had me laughing because they were so bad.The one that got me the most had to be the part where it says John Smith was married with several children by the time Pocahontas was in England and heard he was still alive.John Smith never married or had children!Then he goes on to put out theories as to how she really died, which would have been fine had he not said that maybe it was from a broken heart due to seeing a married with children John Smith again.

As someone who has been reading about and loves the history of Jamestown for years, specifically Pocahontas and the Virginia Indians in relation to it, this section was a HUGE disappointment to me.I am fully aware of how many bad books are out there about Pocahontas, but this one tiny section is worse than a lot of them simply because it is so short, full of so many errors, and because it claims to be more accurate than the history books.It is not when it comes to Pocahontas.Even the small amount of information given in my history textbooks growing up was more accurate than what's in this book.

Benedict Arnold: American Hero

I have to admit, while consuming this book, I did learn a lot of things.Many I didn't know before, but others I maybe half remembered.However, I did not particularly like the book.The tone was off in a way.While I know that, as stated the preface, the book is aimed at more a general reader and notan academic audience I felt as if the tone was off.Instead of sharing something interesting with a general reader, the reader is being talked down to.

Another point of contention is that as some sort of alternate history is that he sticks to a familiar narrative about `Great Men'.What is interesting is not driving forces, but ephemera about names either already in the books or not in the history books when they should be.

Finally, the author tries to hit so many points that what is presented lacks depth.This is a book of trivia, and not a history book.

American History Rodney Dangerfield-Style
Well, we all know our American history, or do we? While I read this book, I felt like Rodney Dangerfield in "Back to School", a middle aged adult student, and learning what I missed.I caught myself frequently saying to myself -- "Really!?" It's fun reading, and the writing moved quickly. A great time to read -- late Spring, just in time for Memorial Day and the 4th of July!

That's Not in My American History Book
Anyone who enjoyed Paul Harvey's "The Rest of the Story" radio broadcasts will find this large collection of short history stories enjoyable too. Although there are a few Wold War II era stories, most of the book is tales from the revolution to Civil War times. A list of nicknames for most of the past presidents, some of which are unflattering, is about as controversial as the book gets. A light, enjoyable read.

Interesting
My son-in-law loves anything to do with history.This was a good one for him! ... Read more

Product Description
In this book James Westheider explores the social and professional paradoxes facing African-American soldiers in Vietnam.Service in the military started as a demonstration of the merits of integration as blacks competed with whites on a near equal basis for the first time.Yet as the war in Vietnam progressed, many black recruits felt isolated and threatened in an institution controlled almost totally by whites.Consequently, many blacks no longer viewed the military as a professional opportunity, but an undue burden on the black community. ... Read more

Product Description
This book uses historical commentary and recipes to trace the history of American cooking from the first European contact with Native Americans to the 1970s. Each of 50 chronologically arranged topical chapters contain 500-1,000 words of general commentary followed by descriptions and clear, step-by-step instructions for 3-4 recipes. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

Excellent journey via food through the American past
This detailed cookbook is a fascinating look at historic America through the foods that were cooked and eaten. Over 350 recipes from 1524-1977 are detailed in their original form. Each chapter contains three to seventeen recipes and gives you advice on how to update them for modern day cooking. For instance the 1607 recipe for Indian or Bean Bread lets you know you can substitute baking soda for hardwood ashes!

This is a great book for anyone interested in history and food. It also would be great to use as a teaching tool along side American history lessons!

Great recipes
I won't repeat what other reviewers have said about the research -- I agree that this book is a meticulous investigation into the history of American foodways.What I want to comment on is the recipes. I've tried most of them & found them very clear, well-tested, and ... delicious! I'm especially impressed with the baked goods.The breads, cakes, and pies are fantastic.I've served a number of these dishes & baked goods to friends, to rave reviews.

I particularly appreciate the fact that Zanger took the time to explain the methods and ingredients so that even beginner cooks (or children who are old enough to handle knives & hot stoves) could work their way through these recipes.He's always careful to explain how the recipes would have looked, tasted, or been cooked in the past, while teaching thet reader exactly how to accomplish the same result in a modern kitchen.Highly recommended.

Superb
This cookbook is a great history cookbook. It has been meticuously researched. There are original recipes from every era in America History- Indian recipes from before the Pilgrims landed, recipes during prohibition and so on. The commentary that goes with each recipe helps to put the recipe in its historical context and provides an overview for what was going on at the time. It is interesting reading and fun to try these recipes. The directions are clear and most of the recipes do not require unusual ingredients. Additionally the end results are usually pretty good.

This is an excellent book for homeschoolers hoping to put a new twist on history and teaching about people of the past. This is also a great resources for the cooks who have every other cookbook on their shelves.

Enjoy.

Combines recipes from centuries of American history
Compiled, written and edited by Boston journalist and restaurant critic Mark H. Zanger, The American History Cookbook combines recipes from centuries of American history with historical commentary. Indexed by year of the original publication of the recipes, The American History Cookbook is sure to be a family favorite as its dishes such as "Preble Cake," "Walnut Oat Burgers," "Ground-Nut Soup" continue to be enjoyed through the generations. A unique compendium of authentic, historic American cuisine, The American History Cookbook is a superbly presented and enthusiastically recommended addition to personal, family, and community library cookbook collections! ... Read more

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Customer Reviews (1)

Great Book, Great help for Comps
It's a good overview work that will assist most students of American history in establishing a basic knowledge of the field. ... Read more

Product Description
Highly-respected for its impeccable scholarship and elegant writing style, American History: A Survey provides students and instructors with a comprehensive account of the American past in which no single approach or theme predominates.From its first edition, this text has included a scrupulous account of American political and diplomatic history. Today, however, the book explores areas of history such as social, cultural, urban, racial and ethnic history, more history of the West and South, environmental history, and the history of women and gender.In addition, American history has not evolved in a vacuum, but as part of a larger global world. The eleventh edition of this text places American history into that global context, making connections for students who live in an ever-expanding world themselves. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Great Book
This is the first History book that I found interesting. Not only does it give you good information... but it shows different views on events in history.

A Fresh Look at Our History....
I have yet to finish reading the entirety of this rather extensive piece on the history of America, but so far have found this book to not only hold my interest, but to provide a wealth of important, and often fascinating information. I think all Americans should read this book because it teaches about the true foundations of our country. Some facts may be difficult for some to accept, such as the atrocities committed against the Native Americans, among others, but nonetheless they need to be told. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who really wants to learn about how our country came to be what it is today. ... Read more

Product Description
In a sweeping synthesis of American history, Mary Ryan demonstrates how the meaning of male and female has evolved, changed, and varied over a span of 500 years and across major social and ethnic boundaries. She traces how, at select moments in history, perceptions of sex difference were translated into complex and mutable patterns for differentiating women and men. How those distinctions were drawn and redrawn affected the course of American history more generally.

Ryan recounts the construction of a modern gender regime that sharply divided male from female and created modes of exclusion and inequity. The divide between male and female blurred in the twentieth century, as women entered the public domain, massed in the labor force, and revolutionized private life. This transformation in gender history serves as a backdrop for seven chronological chapters, each of which presents a different problem in American history as a quandary of sex. Ryan's bold analysis raises the possibility that perhaps, if understood in their variety and mutability, the differences of sex might lose the sting of inequality. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

A Masterpiece
"The Mysteries of Sex" is a brilliantly written and insightful analysis of the rolegender differences have played in creating American culture. The scope of this book is truly epic, as Ryan traces the role and influence of American women from the Native American 'corn-mothers' ---to working women trying to balance home and professional lives today. This book is nothing less than 'must' reading for every modern woman.
P.Abeles

Remain vigilant about the continuing mysteries of sex
"Mysteries of Sex" is on the ROROTOKO list of cutting-edge intellectual nonfiction. Professor Ryan's book interview ran here as cover feature on July 29, 2009.

The Mysteries of Sex
The "Mysteries of Sex" is a fascinating and enlightening book, not a sex manual as you might suppose, but an analysis of the relationships between men and women through four centuries of American history, from the American Indians to the present day.Mary Ryan explores the way in which gender differences, and the political response to them, has shaped, and is shaping, our history.I was impressed, not only by the scholarship, but especially by the prose style: a heavy subject, but an easy read!Mysteries of Sex: Tracing Women and Men through American History

Impossible to Ignore!
Detailed and vastly documented study of gender differences throughout American history. Impossible to ignore. ... Read more

Product Description
The Reader's Companion to American History offers a fresh, absorbing portrait of the United States from the origins of its native peoples to the nation's complex identity in the 1990s. Covering political, economic, cultural, and social history, and combining hundreds of short descriptive entries with longer evaluative articles, the encyclopedia is informative, engaging, and a pleasure to read. The Reader's Companion is sponsored by the Society of American Historians, an organization dedicated to promoting literary excellence in the writing of biography and history. Under the editorship of the eminent historians John A. Garraty and Eric Foner, a large and distinguished group of scholars, biographers, and journalists -- nearly four hundred contemporary authorities -- illuminate the critical events, issues, and individuals that have shaped our past. More than a reference book to be consulted simply for the dates or details of an event, the Companion offers a history of ideas. It distinguishes itself from conventional encylcopedias by featuring several hundred thematic articles. A chronological account of immigration, for example, is complemented by a conceptual article on ethnicity. Similarly, the Bull Moose party and the Know-Nothings, examined in individual entries, are also placed within a larger context in an article on third parties in American politics. And readers consulting entries on specific religious groups, leaders, and movements will be led to an article offering an overview of religion in America. Linking discrete facts, dates, and events through its interpretive essays, the Reader's Companion presents the overarching themes and ideas that have animated our historical landscape. Over the past twenty years, the study of history has undergone a metamorphosis. Political history, once the primary avenue for exploring the past, has given way to the "new social history." Focus has shifted from key events and leaders to everyday life in America, including the history of the family, women and the work force, race relations, and community life. The Reader's Companion to American History reflects this broader vision of our past. Interweaving traditional political and economic topics with the spectrum of America's social and cultural legacies -- everything from marriage to medicine, crime to baseball, fashion to literature -- the Companion is certain to engage the curiosity, interests, and passions of every reader.Amazon.com Review
Like an encyclopedia, The Reader's Companion to American History contains alphabetical entries for almost every important person, place, or event in America's past. Unlike an encyclopedia, however, this lively interpretive volume is meant to be read and enjoyed, not merely used as a reference. It contains three different kinds of articles: short, unsigned listings similar to those found in most encyclopedias; signed biographical pieces by historical authorities; and longer essays on broad topics such as abolitionism or 20th-century art. Each article cross-references related topics, and an extensive index opens up webs of interrelationships, making it possible to delve deeply into areas of special interest.Accessible, comprehensive, and surprisingly affordable, The Reader'sCompanion to American History merits an important place in any homelibrary. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

Highly Slanted Revisionist Articles with Emphasis on Obscure Minority & Female Individuals
Authors Foner and Garrity warn the reader in the Introduction that this volume is not a presentation of historical facts, but rather an INTERPRETIVE History.Boy is it ever!Their bias is the contemporary far-left, "America has much to apologize for" viewpoint held by the vast majority of tenured academicians today.That makes this volume extremely useful for college and high school students -- they can liberally lift their term papers from this book and readily find favor with their professors and teachers.In so doing, however, we all lose.

The authors made a special effort to include biographical sketches of members of minority groups and women, in their own words, "... partly because such people have often been neglected in encyclopedias."When this book was first published a storm of protest arose due to this careful selection of biographical entries, leading to incongruous abnormalities such as giving more space to Alice Hamilton, Dorothea Lange, Richard Allen and Jacob Lawrence than to Jefferson Davis.Historical figures like Generals James Longstreet or "Mad" Anthony Wayne are, of course, not mentioned at all.Foner and Garrity have turned American history on its head with this volume, but it is useful as a reference on people the reader has never heard of.

There is a central theme to this interpretive history as noted, and the authors appear to have controlled its content to fit their agenda.The short articles were written by graduate students or post-doctoral writers working under their supervision.The longer, interpretive essays were written by other authorities, but their editorial hand appears heavy and consistent.I am reminded of the statement made by an editorial writer of the Atlanta Constitution, "It doesn't make any difference who writes the editorial, we all pretty much think alike."So it is in this book.

The authors also state that there are two histories: that what actually happened, and that what historians write.They may be literally correct, but one should be aware that much of what is written can be inaccurate or simply propaganda.The German atrocities in Belgium during World War I, for example, were actually fabrications to whip up war fever against the Germans.Such writing is not history, although it fits the author's very liberal second definition.I would contend that the thrust and much of the context of this book is also designed to create a new social history of the US for the authors' own political purposes and as such is hardly history.What is written should be fair and balanced as much as possible given the source materials.

I would recommend buying this book if only to see the depths to which contemporary revisionism has fallen.If the reader is traveling to New York, Hollywood, or attending an elite university, I recommend that large parts of this work be committed to memory.The reader will be able to amaze his acquaintances at cocktail parties or thrill his professors with his knowledge of the contributions made by women and blacks, and become much in demand among limousine liberals.In the red (enemy) states such knowledge will be useless.

Useful format, not-so-objective information
Being somewhat of a "history buff," I initially thought that this book would be a useful addition to my library in order for I or anyone else to quickly find information on a variety of topics relevant to American history.In scope and usability this book is good.However, after actually using the book several times time it became increasingly evident to me that the portrayal of American history in this book is consistently biased, in this instance from a liberal/progressive/apologetic tilt, to the extent of which I believe it to be detrimental to the reader on account of the selectivity of the information included (or especially not).While many historical essays and other writings are not necessarily objective, I do not believe that a general reference book should be written in such a fashion.Needless to say this book is no longer a part of my library.

An essential part of your collection
Whether your personal library has only a handful of books or countless hundreds, 'The Reader's Companion to American History' should be on your shelf. It is in fact what the title claims it to be. Dozens of authors have written concise entries covering thousands of American history topics. Topics range from the obvious (Civil War) to the obscure (say, the Granger Movement). Most articles are a few paragraphs of several hundred words while a few range over several pages (e.g. railroads).

Highest recommendation for anyone with an interest in American history of any era.

Just What I'd Been Looking For
The Reader's Companion to American History doesn't over-explain.Instead, it provides just enough information to help contextualize a period novel or, in my case, Constitutional law material, quickly.Without this book, I would have been forced to consult any number of sources to gather vital facts about people or events.This book is worth having around for reference.

A solid companion for parents who help with homework
Let's admit it...all parents help out with homework.Sometimes the help is simply altruistic, other times it is to meet a glaring deadline and of course there are times we just want to make sure everything is done right.To this end, "The Reader's Companion to American History," is a solid companion for parents who pitch in and help their kids finish their homework.It is also a valuable source to make sure our kids are not cutting corners.

This book has it all...brief entries, articles, essays, maps, tables, bibliographies, thorough cross-references and a big-time index. If you want to find out facts about political, economic, social and cultural history, editors Eric Foner & John Garraty do a splendid job.Moreover, the first-class collection of nearly four hundred contributions from eminent scholars, biographers and journalists is very impressive.

Name it...James Monroe (fifth president of the United States), Marilyn Monroe, The Monroe Doctrine...its all there.This book is great to have around during crunch time on homework.It is reliable and easy to use.Its big and heavy and not easy to carry around but when it comes to your kid's education...its worth its weight in gold. ... Read more

Product Description

Volume II: From 1877

For one and two-semester, freshman/sophomore-level survey courses in U.S. History.

Get the book that gets your students. The authors of The American Journey get your students with the best storyline, the best pedagogy, the best maps, the best in—text documents and the most inspiring student—oriented material available in a U.S. History text. Written in a clear, engaging style with a straightforward chronological organization, The American Journey motivates students to learn more about the key features of American political, social, and economic history. Prominent coverage is given to the West and the South, and the text highlights the importance of religion in American history.

The path that led the authors to The American Journey began in the classroom with their students.  The goal of this text is to make American history accessible to students.  They key to that goal-the core of the book-is a strong clear narrative.  American history is a compelling story and the authors tell it in an engaging, forthright way, while providing students with an abundance of tools to help them absorb that story and put it into context.  This text combines political and social history, to fit the experience of particular groups into the broader perspective of the American past, to give voice to minor and major players alike because of their role in the story this text tells.

Customer Reviews (2)

Another textbook
I had to buy this for a class so I wasn't really excited about it. As far as history text books go it's rather good.

Do not Buy
Not much to say about this book, it's all about point and Figure charts so if you like candlestick, line chart or bar chart this book will make no sense to you. I'm so disappointed I could slap my self......if you want a really good Book buy Channel Surfing: Riding the Waves of Channels to Profitable Trading (Paperback)
by Michael , J. Parsons

I'm so sorry if you want a really GREAT book buy Channel Surfing: Riding the Waves of Channels to Profitable Trading (Paperback)
by Michael , J. Parsons
Channel Surfing: Riding the Waves of Channels to Profitable Trading

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