Symbols of America

The most famous address in Washington, D.C., is 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue. The White House has been the home and the office of our country's presidents since 1792; only George Washington never lived there. The house has four main purposes. The East Wing is the home to the First Family. The President and staff have offices in the West Wing. Foreign heads of state are greeted here. Displays of items collected by each president serve as a history museum. Readers join a tour of the Executive Mansion as they read, growing to understand this symbol of freedom and democracy.

The presidential seal is one of the most respected symbols of the United States. It authenticates documents signed by the president and is seen on the presidential flag. The story behind this important image dates back to the day the United States declared its independence. Readers learn what the design means while following along with a short timeline that guides them through significant dates in the seal's past. Historical images and full-color photographs engage readers' eyes along with their minds.

Abraham Lincoln was a giant of a president, so it befits him to have a 19 x 19-feet marble statue enclosed in an enormous building on the mall in Washington, D.C. Each spread in this book is packed with interesting, accessible text and photographs that bring the story of Abraham Lincoln's Memorial into sharp focus. Readers will feel like they are on a virtual tour of the statue, building, and grounds as they learn about Lincoln and the builders of his historic memorial.

If you watch the majestic American bald eagle fly above the treetops, it's easy to see why it stands for freedom and strength in the United States. As the national emblem, it's seen on government buildings and documents, and is often used to symbolize national pride. Readers learn how the American bald eagle came to be the national bird of the United States and the many ways its image is used. Full-color photographs of the American bald eagle highlight its fierce beauty. A timeline guides readers through its creation as a national symbol.

Standing tall over New York Harbor, the Statue of Liberty shines her light for all to see. This US monument isn't just a great place to visit on a trip to New York City. It has represented US freedom for more than 125 years! Readers learn that this US symbol was a gift from France for the country's centennial. They also learn about the construction of this beautiful statue and other important historical context. Full-color and historical images showcase the building of the statue and its present majesty.

The American flag flies from government buildings, schools, and often from homes. Great care is taken with it, and if anything happens to a U.S. flag, outrage often follows. While readers are likely familiar with saying the Pledge of Allegiance and celebrating Flag Day each June, they may not know why stars were added or what the colors of the flag have meant throughout U.S. history. The main content of this valuable addition to a social studies library covers both the historical and symbolic background of the American flag. Full-color photographs of flags through the years help readers understand its great significance through many eras.

The Liberty Bell hasn't been properly rung since 1846 when it cracked irreparably. However, its inability to ring doesn't diminish it as a symbol of freedom in the United States. Readers are introduced to the history of the Liberty Bell from its casting to the present day. Historical images as well as full-color, modern photographs of the bell engage readers with the story of one of the nation's most recognizable symbols. A timeline offers an additional guide to the interesting, accessible main content.

Most Americans know the famous words and tune of "The Star-Spangled Banner." This national anthem was born from one man's experience during war and continues to remind us of the perseverance and strength of the United States. The symbolism of the national anthem is palpable in the story of Francis Scott Key's experience at Fort McHenry. Readers learn the story of Key's immortal words through engaging historical content.

This 555-foot high marble obelisk is an imposing presence on the National Mall, much as George Washington was an imposing presence during his time as president and now in our nation's history. From its inception to its current renovations, inquisitive readers will learn how and when the monument was built, and what happened when the project ran out of money. Eye-catching photographs show the inside and the outside of the monument. Readers will surely be motivated to put a visit to the monument on their wish lists.

Was there really an Uncle Sam? Yes! He was Samuel Wilson, who sent barrels of meat marked "U.S." to American soldiers during the War of 1812. The soldiers called it "Uncle Sam's" meat, and an icon was born. Cartoonist Thomas Nast drew the familiar portrait of the man in a top hat and striped pants. Uncle Sam's image has appeared in political ads and on postage stamps. Costumed interpreters take on his persona at historic sites, including Mount Vernon. This high-interest text will engage readers and leave them wanting to find out more about one of America's most famous symbols.

Why would anyone want to carve enormous faces into a piece of solid rock in the Black Hills of South Dakota? Why not! This book whisks readers away to view the incredible stone monument. Each spread is filled with age-appropriate details about the "Shrine of Democracy." Readers will learn about the initial idea to promote tourism, how the monument was carved, funding difficulties, the numbers of workers, the number of yearly visitors, and how the monument got its name. Eye-catching photographs help readers understand the massive scope of this project.

The final resting place for many of America's heroes is located only a few miles from our nation's capital. This high-interest text will take readers on a tour of the cemetery and point out the graves of some well-known patriots, including President John F. Kennedy, Jr. A detailed map guides readers as they locate sections and specific grave sites. Descriptions of ceremonies help readers understand how these events show respect for those who gave their lives in the service of their country. Photographs such as the changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknowns enhance the text.