A Dictionary of American History

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 accounts of all the wars and conflicts in which the country has been involved. Particular attention is paid to the history of the American Indian peoples and full coverage of political, constitutional, and foreign affairs is complemented by a wide range of entries on gender and rights issues and on minority history.

A Dictionary of American History is designed to be of maximum use to the widest range of individuals needing facts about the past on short notice. Anyone armed with the book can swiftly discover the essential elements of who, what, when, and where about a subject, check dates or spelling, and have an invaluable aid in trouble-shooting for tests or checking accuracy. Casual readers who browse through it will find it a fascinating source of innumerable surprises and curiosities about a rich and vibrant past.