This book presents a compelling story of both the familiar and distant events and people of the twentieth century. The goal of this book is to emphasize to readers what they will need to know about our past to function best in the society that emerged from the twentieth century. The authors accomplished this by seeking integration -- combing political and social history, to fit the experience of particular groups into the broader perspective of the American past, and to give voice to minor and major players alike. This strong, clear narrative is told in an engaging, forthright way, but also provides readers with an abundance of tools to help them absorb the material and put it into context.Presents well balanced political and social coverage of all points of view on controversial issues such as civil rights, military and foreign policy, feminism, the great waves of foreign migration, and cultural revolutions in music, fashion, and behavior. Stresses the importance of religion in twentieth-century American society. Features primary-source documents, letters, diary entries, and other first-hand accounts to highlight the personal dimensions of the American journey.For history enthusiasts.