Landmarks of Democracy: American Institutions

An essential aspect of every country's government is its monetary system. The United States government planned the National Mint shortly after the Constitution was ratified, and the rest, as they say, is history. The U.S. Mint unifies the country through core values, which are present on each coin: E Pluribus Unum, or Out of many, one. Historical photographs and a graphic organizer allow students to learn about a crucial aspect of American government while making connections to the social studies curriculum.

The United States commemorates unidentified fallen soldiers in a special way. All unknown soldiers that have lost their lives since World War I are honored through tombs, which symbolize the courage and bravery possessed by the unknown people buried inside them. Arlington Cemetery, home to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, boasts a peaceful atmosphere appropriate for the burial ground of hundreds of thousands of United States soldiers. This title uses primary sources and stunning imagery to introduce students to the history behind one of the country's most unifying institutions.

Today, many people regard the postal service as an outdated method of notification. However, the U.S. postal service is the only delivery service that reaches every address in the United States. The U.S. Constitution officially established this important institution, which traces its roots back to the Second Continental Congress in 1775. Without the postal service, many people would not be able to receive necessary correspondence. This book explores the history of the U.S. Postal Service and the role of this institution is vital to American daily life. Full-color photographs and a graphic organizer provide students with the tools necessary to make connections beyond the text.

The Internal Revenue Service is the government agency that collects federal taxes. The IRS traces its origins back to the Lincoln presidency when the position of the Commissioner of Internal Revenue was created in 1862. The commissioner assessed the nation's first income tax, which was implemented to raise funds to cover war expenses. Without federal taxes, many people would not have access to different types of monetary assistance for services like veterans' benefits, education, the military, and social security. These services have become essential elements on which U.S. citizens rely. This title explores the history of the IRS and how it has developed into such an important part of daily American life. A graphic organizer and vivid full-color photographs connect with the informative and manageable text.

U.S. Congress was formed concurrently with the United States through the implementation and ratification of the Constitution. This unified body, comprised of the Senate and House of Representatives, makes many of the United States' legislative decisions. Student will learn essential information about this government institution and how its history has affected the operations of the United States government today. A graphic organizer, primary sources, and full-color photographs provide students with additional information about important legislation voted upon by this group of government officials.