Author Description

This survey text presents American history using political history as a framework through which social, economic and cultural developments are brought to light. This text maintains a traditional interpretation of history, while paying closer attention to the lives and contributions of ordinary human beings. Biographical sketches, entitled "American Lives", provides insights into the experiences of famous, and not so famous, Americans. The eighth edition features greater emphasis on the impact of Spain and Hispanic culture during the growth of America, as well as new material on such topics as the influence of computer technology, the 1992 presidential election, the AIDS crisis and other recent events.