A Dictionary of American History [Paperback]

This book is concise, easy -to-use guide to the individuals, peoples, parties, movements, events, decisions and wars that have shaped the history of the United States.Preface vii

Abbreviations viii

Dictionary 1

It is fascinating, satisfying and richly informed. Each entry is a brilliant piece of American history or biography in ruthlessly summarized form. Contemporary Review

The selection of entries seems judicious and more helpful than that in Martin and Gelber and other similar works; an up-to-date one-volume reference for office and home use. Reference for Books Bulletin

This dictionary will surely become a stand-by for a generation of students, teachers and researchers. Reference Books

Immensely useful to all engaged in the study of the American past. It will save them many hours of frustration in the search for essential but often elusive information. Reference Books

Thomas L. Purvis has a BA from Washington University in St. Louis and a PhD from The Johns Hopkins University. Having taught at the Peabody Conservatory of Music, the University of Georgia, Auburn University, and the College of William and Mary, he now devotes his time to historical research and writing. His books include The Historical Almanac of Revolutionary America 1763-1800 (1995), and Proprietors, Patronage and Paper Money (1986). He contributes to American National Biography as an associate editor.This book answers the need for fully up-to-date essential information on the history of public life, social and cultural change, scientific and artistic achievement, and religious diversity. The book includes concise histories for every state, biographies of leading figures in all fields of endeavor, and accounl“.