Author Joseph R. Conlin's award-winning teaching and writing styles are reflected in this colorful and engaging look at the individuals, events, and ideas that have shaped this nation's past. Organized into short, easy-to-read chapters, this text sets the story in a political context, weaving in social, cultural, economic, intellectual, constitutional, diplomatic, and military events along the way. American history has never been so eye-opening--and enjoyable. This Enhanced Edition also shows you how to use the maps, images, and charts in the book to gain an edge in your studies. A brief introduction to the text--"Studying from Primary Source Materials"--reveals some of the tricks to uncovering the past that your instructor wants you to know. "Discovery" sections at the end of every chapter assist you in practicing these skills, helping you to connect the text's main ideas and excel in your course.