How did the U.S. evolve toward nationhood? Which factors prompted its turn away from Colonial status to independence? How was the Revolutionary War fought and won against such overwhelming odds? What were the conceptual underpinnings of the new society in its wake? These questions fuel class discussions and research assignments for students in junior high/middle school, high school and college every day, as well as the Supreme Court decisions that make our headlines. For the secondary and college student -- as well as the general reader -- this set is the definitive work answering these and other questions.

Coverage begins just prior to the American Revolution, including the Revolution, the framing of the American Constitution, the organization of a new national government, the development of the party system, the Louisiana Purchase, the second war with Britain, the acquisition of Florida and the Monroe Doctrine. Chronologically, this period is roughly from 1754 (beginning of the Seven Years' War) to the inauguration of President Andrew Jackson (1829). Woven among this set of political markers and milestones are entries outlining the cultural development of the new nation, including entries on art, music, literature, dress and daily life.

Included in this set are: 670 articles ranging from 250 to 5,000 words in length 100 sidebars spotlighting key events, people, and concepts 200 illustrations and more than 10 archival maps A chronology of major events A comprehensive index