National Geographic Almanac Of American History - 06 edition

Summary: Offering a carefully balanced mix of the statistics an almanac requires, The National Geographic Almanac of American History features historic facts, stunning images, revealing maps, and concise analysis for deeper understanding of U.S. history. An Introduction by American historian and Foundation Director of the D-Day Museum, Hugh Ambrose, outlines why Americans need to know their history. The book's reference value is enhanced by a thorough table of contents, a det ...show moreailed index and bibliography, and a feature on how to use the book, which is divided into four major sections:

1. America's Geologic Makeup: The land is responsible for how America developed: where it was settled, where agriculture took hold, why industry worked where it did, how mountains held up commerce, and rivers aided it. Where wars were fought; how criminals escaped, and how the transcontinental railroad did the impossible, linking the nation from coast to coast.

2.Milestones: 12 essays give the themes that moved America forward, toward its role as the global leader it is today. These include: The Immigrant Experience (beginning in 1607), Birth of the Legal System, The Space Race, America as World Leader.

3.Major Eras: 12 chapters cover major sections of time, beginning with the native peoples and early settlement by the Europeans. Then chapters focus on growing America: the rise of agriculture and business, the exploration, the wars, the social movements, the commercial leaps. Short narratives on each topic are focused and easy to read, with type that is not too dense. Statistic boxes are in every chapter, with the stats you need to know to be a comparative historian. Eachchapter ends with a spread entitled "America and the World." In it a map pinpoints parts of the world where America was an influence. By tracking this global relationship through the book, the reader tracks the development of America as superpower.

4. At a Glance: The book ends with a bang, confirming its excellent reference quality. Five sections cover: Leaders, Wars, Religions/Beliefs, Presidents, and finally, Milestone Documents, including the Declaration of Independence, the Emancipation Proclamation, the Gettysburg Address, and more.

...show less