As the first in a series of books on America since 1945, Davies' book offers insightful historical interpretation as it examines sports as a microcosm of America's national life. From Americans' use of sports seasons (instead of weather seasons) to mark time?to the nation's propensity for neglecting its educational system in favor of putting resources into high school athletic programs?Davies presents facts and narratives that will provoke students to think critically about life in the United States.