California
Part of the United States: Past and Present series
This exciting book provides a sweeping but in-depth history of the state of California, from pre-colonial days to the present, from Spanish missions and the Gold Rush to Silicon Valley and Governor Schwarzenegger, including geography, people, industries, key public figures and historical events, noteworthy places and enterprises, and government structure. Includes a complete timeline of state/colonial history, informative fact sheet, and fascinating and colorful sidebars that connect the state's vivid and intriguing past with its vibrant present.
Ohio
Part of the United States: Past and Present series
Known to today's teens for the Rock 'n Roll Hall of Fame, Ohio is a fascinating state for students to study. This book covers all the basics that students need to know about "the Buckeye state." The book includes chapters on the land, history, government, and major industries. There is also a chapter on notable people from the state, including famous figures from the Wright brothers to Halle Berry. Every chapter contains a sidebar devoted to the theme "Ohio Past and Present" which brings to life a moment from Ohio's past and compares it to the present day. A timeline of important events and a listing of key facts about Ohio are also included.
Florida
Part of the United States: Past and Present series
This book studies the culture, politics, history, economy, and art of Florida. With its rich wildlife and unique geography, this book will entice readers to learn about this most unique of states.
Colorado
Part of the United States: Past and Present series
From the Rocky Mountains in the west to the agricultural plains in the east, Colorado is filled with spectacular views and a sense of history from the time the Paleo-Indians arrived there about 12,000 years ago. This exciting book explores the history of Colorado from that time in history right up to modern day. It's loaded with unique sidebars that touch on both past and present.
Nebraska
Part of the United States: Past and Present series
Nebraska is a state of great geographic diversity, agriculture, railroads, and a history that began with the arrival of the Omaha, Cheyenne, and Pawnee Indians, among others. An engaging narrative supported by features such as sidebars, maps, and timelines takes readers on a journey to the Heartland.
Michigan
Part of the United States: Past and Present series
Take readers on a journey to the great state of Michigan. Students learn that it has 40 major rivers and more than 35,000 lakes and ponds. They also learn about the wild, cold land of the past and the climate of today. They'll take a look at Native Americans who lived on the land, the Europeans who explored and settled there, and Michigan's entry into the Union. Readers will examine the workings of the state's government and the changes in the economy over the years. Some of the notable people from Michigan include Chief Okemos, William Kellogg, Henry Ford, Diana Ross, Francis Ford Coppola, and Serena Williams.
Puerto Rico
Part of the United States: Past and Present series
This book chronicles Puerto Rico's history and diverse culture, including its residents, industries, and arts. Sidebars impart interesting tidbits and maps provide a thorough topical view.
Oregon
Part of the United States: Past and Present series
Oregon is rich in history, geography, agriculture, business, and culture. This book chronicles the fascinating details about the beaver state, giving readers a comprehensive introduction to an unforgettable place.
Louisiana
Part of the United States: Past and Present series
Louisiana attracts thousands of tourists each year who are drawn there by the state's historic buildings, legendary music scene, and rich cuisine. Home to a number of colleges, Louisiana is one of the United States foremost cultural centers. Originally home to numerous Native American tribes, the state was colonized by the French in the 17th century, and then later purchased by the United States. Readers will be enthralled by the state's fascinating history, and will be shown how Louisiana's unique past has shaped its present. This book also describes the state's governmental structure, economy, and profiles of many famous residents.
Rhode Island
Part of the United States: Past and Present series
The Ocean State is the country's smallest, only 48 miles long and 37 miles wide, yet it has assumed a large place in American history, often finding itself at the very center of momentous national events. Founded by Roger Williams as a bastion of religious freedom and tolerance, the colony very early developed a strong independent streak. Though sandwiched between the powerful and often domineering neighbors New York and Massachusetts, Rhode Island remained fiercely self-sufficient, relying on its maritime economy and local industries for sustenance. Though tiny, Rhode Island is a ferment of creative, historical, and cultural energy. This book reveals the riches contained within it and captures its vibrant and enduring spirit.
Minnesota
Part of the United States: Past and Present series
Readers explore Minnesota's rich history, including the lifestyles of the Dakota and other native peoples, the nineteenth-century influx of Scandinavian immigrants, and the emergence of the state's major cities today. Readers learn about the opening of the St. Lawrence Seaway in 1959 and the colorful history of the Mississippi. The organization of the state's government and the agricultural and economic products of the state are engagingly presented. Some of Minnesota's memorable people of the past and present are described, such as Judy Garland, Bob Dylan, Jean Paul Getty, John Madden, and Jesse Ventura.
Maryland
Part of the United States: Past and Present series
Known as the "Old Line State" and the "Free State," Maryland is a fascinating state for students to study. This book covers all the basics that students need to know about the seventh state (and one of the original thirteen colonies). The book includes chapters on the land, history, government, and major industries. There is also a chapter on famous Marylanders, from Frederick Douglass and Thurgood Marshall to Cal Ripken, Jr. Every chapter contains a sidebar devoted to the theme "Maryland: Past and Present" which brings a moment from Maryland's past and compares it to the present day. A timeline of important events and a listing of key facts about Maryland are also included.
Texas
Part of the United States: Past and Present series
This engaging book profiles the state of Texas with all of its geography, culture, economy, politics and arts. Touching on the history of the state, the book's main focus is on the present day and the future of this fascinating state.
Arizona
Part of the United States: Past and Present series
Arizona has an incredibly rich history, including wild days of the Old West. This book chronicles Arizona's past up to present day, with an interesting exploration of the state's geography, trade, and peoples.
North Carolina
Part of the United States: Past and Present series
Nestled in the Appalachian mountains, North Carolina has always been at the crossroads of American history. Both Revolutionary War and Civil War battles were fought on its soil and the state underwent many changes from its inception to the present day. This accessible, informative book will guide the reader through the state's absorbing history. Students will learn about plant and animal life, geography, famous residents, and details about the state's government. Full color photographs and eye-catching design will make this a favorite go-to source on beautiful North Carolina
South Dakota
Part of the United States: Past and Present series
South Dakota is filled with beautiful views, from the Badlands to the Black Hills. It carries with it a sense of history that began with the Paleo-Indians 11,000 years ago. This colorful book takes readers on a journey of the history, culture, economy, and government of South Dakota, from the past to the present. Unique sidebars and timelines support the narrative.
Utah
Part of the United States: Past and Present series
Known and revered equally for its wild beauty and socially conservative Mormon culture, Utah is a western state like no other. Though marked by great violence at its founding, Utah has a less freewheeling and lawless frontier history, due to the firm control of the Mormon dominated culture and government. Most of the state's wildness is to be found in its awe-inspiring landscapes. The state includes some of the nation's most dramatic national parks, including Monument Valley, Arches, Bryce Canyon, and Zion. It's also rich in personality and talent, having produced the likes of the Osmond family, Robert Redford, Roseanne Barr, and NFL star Steve Young. This book reveals Utah's many mysteries and riches.
Arkansas
Part of the United States: Past and Present series
By the time Spanish explorer Hernando de Soto arrived in Arkansas in 1541, the area was resplendent with the Native American culture of the Caddo, Osage, and Quapaw. The name "Arkansas" comes from a Quapaw word that means "south wind." This book serves as an entertaining visit to Arkansas-the Natural State. Students will gain a solid understanding of the state's government, economics, history, culture, and geography. Highlighted celebrated residents include Judge Isaac C. Parker, John Hanks Alexander, Daisy Gaston Bates, Sam Walton, Art Porter Senior, Johnny Cash, J. William Fulbright, William Jefferson Clinton, Mary Steenburgen, and Scottie Pippen.
Kentucky
Part of the United States: Past and Present series
Kentucky is a state of coal mining, horse ranches, and agriculture, from the tops of the Appalachians to the rolling bluegrass plains. Students will love this engaging, feature-filled book that explores the history, culture, economy, and government of Kentucky.
New York
Part of the United States: Past and Present series
New York is a state rich in culture and industry. New York: Past and Present explores the broad topics of geography and history, but also touches on some finer details, such as influential New York natives, government, climate, and wildlife. With unique sidebars that touch on both the past and present!
Alaska
Part of the United States: Past and Present series
Known as the "Last Frontier" and the "Land of the Midnight Sun," Alaska is a fascinating state for students to study. This book covers all the basics that students need to know about the forty-ninth state including its geography, history, government, and notable people. It also describes Alaska's major industries over the years, from the great gold rushes of the turn of the century to the oil industry of today. Every chapter contains a sidebar devoted to the theme of past contrasting with the present... A timeline of important events and a listing of key facts about Alaska are also included.
Hawaii
Part of the United States: Past and Present series
Nicknamed the "Aloha State," Hawaii is a great deal more than surfers and sunny beaches. This book covers all the basics that students need to know about the fiftieth state, which is the only state comprised of volcanic islands. A timeline of important events and a listing of key facts about the state are also included.
North Dakota
Part of the United States: Past and Present series
North Dakota has three geographic regions: the Missouri Plateau, the Drift Prairie, and the Red River Valley. Readers learn about the early history of North Dakota, about the Mandan, Ojibway, and Sioux, and the Europeans who settled there. This enlightening story of the "Peace Garden State" includes descriptions of the workings of the state and local government, the vital agricultural, manufacturing, mining, and services industries, and important people who have called North Dakota home. Some of these figures include Maxwell Anderson, Elizabeth Bodine, Warren Christopher, Lynn Anderson, and Phil Jackson.
District of Columbia
Part of the United States: Past and Present series
The District of Columbia is different from anywhere else in the United States. Besides being the nation's capital, it's a federal district that houses the U.S. Government. Although the federal government is central to its economy, D.C. is also a vibrant cultural center, full of exciting theaters, restaurants, clubs, and places where people meet to exchange ideas. Readers learn about the grand buildings, impressive museums, and fascinating historical sites that draw visitors from around the world. This engaging book relates a truly unique story, from geography to the territory's history and government. Highlights of hometown people include Carl Bernstein, Dave Chappelle, Anna J. Cooper, Charles Drew, Bill Nye, Pete Sampras, John Philip Sousa, and Ginuwine.
Mississippi
Part of the United States: Past and Present series
Mississippi is a state with a rich and diverse history. This book explores the intriguing features of the state, including its rich literary history. Sidebars support the narrative and readers will enjoy the resource section, which encourages further exploration.
West Virginia
Part of the United States: Past and Present series
The spirit of West Virginia and its people are best exemplified by the state's most central feature-the Appalachian Mountains. West Virginians are hardy, enduring, and rugged, with a resourcefulness that matches the bounty of natural resources locked within those mountains. In colonial times, West Virginia was considered the western frontier and was part of the Virginia colony. The state's economy has been driven by its rich reserves of natural resources, and its culture has been enriched by its resourceful and spirited populace-including many famous actors, athletes, astronauts, authors, and mathematicians. West Virginia is a state of mountains and mountaineers, forever reaching to the sky and well grounded within the rich earth. Its compelling history is revealed here in great detail and with a suitably noble and uplifting spirit.
New Mexico
Part of the United States: Past and Present series
Famous for its rich history, New Mexico today is also known for cutting-edge technology industry. This diverse personality is showcased in this informative book with sidebars and a rich resource section for further exploration.
Vermont
Part of the United States: Past and Present series
Once a primarily agrarian state, Vermont is now a well-known tourist destination. Many visitors fall in love with its abundant ski slopes, picturesque small towns, and stunning vistas. The first U.S. state that was not part of the original 13 colonies, Vermont was a proud independent republic for many years, and the state retains its sense of independence in the present day. It has consistently embraced progress, and was the first state to outlaw slavery. With numerous historic and modern photographs, informative sidebars, timeline, and fact sheet, this engaging book will teach readers about Vermont's geography, history, government, and economy. Biographical sketches also introduce readers to some of the state's most notable inhabitants.
Nevada
Part of the United States: Past and Present series
This book presents readers with a Nevada perspective that is rarely seen. It explores the state's history, economy, and people, focusing on how the present compares with the past.
Montana
Part of the United States: Past and Present series
With its beautiful scenery and independent spirit, Montana is a state with an interesting history. This book introduces readers to Montana's history and politics, showing how truly unique a place it is.
Connecticut
Part of the United States: Past and Present series
Here is a lively examination of a small state that is nevertheless chock full of history, culture, geographical variety, natural beauty, urban life and industry, and bucolic charm. Connecticut has a wide array of landscapes-coastline and mountains, farms and forests, while also being home to several major cities and within commuting distance of both New York and Boston. An important agricultural state, it is also home to heavy industry, high tech, and one of the world's premier institutions of higher learning-Yale University. It was also an important player in the colonial era and during the Revolution. For a small state, Connecticut is a force to be reckoned with, and this is its fascinating story.
Idaho
Part of the United States: Past and Present series
Famous for its bountiful potato crop, Idaho is one of the fastest-growing states in the country. In addition to its agricultural industry, Idaho is home to a burgeoning science and technology sector. This book will introduce the reader to the fascinating world of Idaho's facts-past and present. The state is proud of its history of supporting human rights, and was one of the first states to give women the right to vote. The narrative also provides an entrancing look at Idaho's natural splendor, which includes snowcapped mountains, pristine lakes, and winding rivers. Rich in natural resources, Idaho has been nicknamed "The Gem State."
Oklahoma
by Robert L. Dorman, Ph.D.
Part of the United States: Past and Present series
This book offers readers a comprehensive look at the past and present of the state of Oklahoma, including its peoples, industries, arts, and culture. Colorful maps and informative and fun sidebars support the main narrative. Readers will love this journey to the state with the motto "Labor Omnia Vincit," which means labor conquers all things.
Indiana
Part of the United States: Past and Present series
Known as the "Crossroads of America," Indiana has indeed proven to be central to our nation in many ways. Its limestone has helped build our cities and skyscrapers. Its produce has fed and nourished us. Its favorite sons have risen to the presidency, the Congress, and the Supreme Court to lead and guide us. Its entertainers and athletes have dazzled us. Stocked with larger-than-life characters-Abraham Lincoln, Johnny Appleseed, Tecumseh, Jimmy Hoffa, James Dean, Larry Bird, Michael Jackson-the story of this heartland state is told in a highly entertaining, enthralling, and detail-rich fashion.
Alabama
Part of the United States: Past and Present series
The state of Alabama is steeped in vibrant history, from the Civil War to the Civil Rights Movement. This colorful and informative book discusses how that history continues to influence the people, government, and industry of Alabama today. Readers will love the fascinating sidebars that touch on both the past and present.
Delaware
Part of the United States: Past and Present series
Delaware may be almost last in size amongst the 50 American states, yet in many ways it is indeed the "First State," as its motto declares. Casting one of the decisive votes in favor of the Declaration of Independence, and the very first state to sign the Constitution, Delaware has long led the nation into the future, a role it continues to play. It has been at the forefront of many important developments in American society-desegregation, the growth of big business and financial services, technological innovation, and scientific breakthroughs. Delaware is not only the little state that could; it is the little state that did and continues to do. This is its fascinating and inspiring story.
Missouri
Part of the United States: Past and Present series
From the Native American inhabitants that settled the land over 3,000 years ago to the present-day; the state of Missouri has had a long, exciting history. This book traces how Missouri's past connects to the present-day, examining the many changes the state has gone through over time. Readers will learn about the state's incredible musical history, see how the state's robust economy evolved, and will get drawn into Missouri's political history.
New Hampshire
Part of the United States: Past and Present series
Filled with fascinating information including a detailed timeline and fact sheet, this book provides students with a comprehensive look at New Hampshire. The state has a lasting influence on American politics and it boasts a rich history, including it being the site of the first primary in presidential elections. Readers will learn how the state has transformed over the years, changing with the times while retaining its unique character. Stunning photographs relay the abundant forests, beautiful scenery, and pristine waterways that draw thousands of tourists every year. Historically known for its stone quarries and family farms, New Hampshire is now home to flourishing manufacturing and technology industries. Maps and sidebars support the entertaining narrative.
Tennessee
Part of the United States: Past and Present series
From the rural serenity of the Smoky Mountains to the Country Music Capital of the World, Tennessee is a state that is rich in history and culture. Readers will be entranced by how this splendid heritage continues to influence the government, industry, and residents of Tennessee today.
Kansas
Part of the United States: Past and Present series
From vast plains to gently rolling hills, Kansas is a state filled with history and agriculture. This visually stunning book explores Kansas from the rich farmland to the mosaic of modern culture. Timelines and sidebars ensure a broad experience of Kansas, both past and present.
Maine
Part of the United States: Past and Present series
Maine is known for its beautiful shore along the Atlantic Ocean, where lighthouses, sandy beaches, and fishing villages can be found. Readers will learn why so many people travel to Maine, as they'll read about the inspiring and breath-taking landscape, including its rustic cabins, relaxing resorts, and expansive forests, which cover nearly 90 percent of the state. They'll read about flora and fauna, including the moose, black bear, beaver, bobcat, coyote, and mink. The economy-based on natural resources-is presented as well. Natives are also highlighted, including writers Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, E. B. White, and Stephen King, politicians Dorothea Dix, and Margaret Chase Smith, and inventor L. L. Bean.
Iowa
Part of the United States: Past and Present series
The bucolic state of Iowa defines America's heartland. Once a state with a strong mining industry, Iowa is now a crucial agrarian state with a large manufacturing industry. Readers will learn about the growth of this key part of America's breadbasket, from prehistory to the current day. This engrossing book also has a detailed timeline, sidebars, fact sheets, and other features that make learning fun.
Georgia
Part of the United States: Past and Present series
This engaging book about the history, geography, government, industries, and people of Georgia will give students an excellent resource for writing reports. As they turn the pages, they will travel back to a time when the first colonists were building their homes and planting their farms. They'll see how this state has grown into one of the leading business and industrial centers in the nation. Readers will learn about notable Georgians, including Eli Whitney, Martin Luther King Jr., Jimmy Carter, and Alice Walker, among others.
South Carolina
Part of the United States: Past and Present series
From the mountains to the sea is a phrase that is often used to describe the remarkable range of South Carolina's geographical features. Students read about the six geographical areas and about the heritage of the Native Americans who lived there. They learn about the role of South Carolina in the American Revolution, and the move of the state capital from Charleston to Columbia in 1790. This insightful book describes events in the Civil Rights movement, and the details about the changing tapestry of the state in the early twenty-first century in terms of cultural richness, educational opportunities, and new industries. Some of the famous people covered in the narrative include Rebecca Motte, the Grimké sisters, Ronald E. McNair, Benjamin Bernanke, Cubby Checker, Althea Gibson, "Shoeless" Joe Jackson, Eartha Kitt, and Robert Mills.
Wyoming
Part of the United States: Past and Present series
Rich in both natural beauty and natural resources, Wyoming is home to such marvels as the Teton, Big Horn, and Sierra Madre Mountains, the Powder and Bighorn Rivers, and the Yellowstone, Devil's Tower, Grand Teton, and Bridger-Teton National Parks. In between the majestic mountains and rushing rivers lies some of the nation's best grazing land, making the state a haven for cattle ranchers. Wyoming is so varied that it also contains prairies, sagebrush steppes, desert scrubland, coniferous and deciduous forests, and even alpine tundra. First explored by fur trappers, who soon yielded to gold rushers, ranchers, and cowboys, Wyoming has long preserved its rugged individualistic streak, fostering the independent-minded who sought only to make a living without being bothered or confined by anyone or anything. That spirit still flourishes today, making Wyoming one of the most fascinating states in the Union, one that is still very much on the frontier of still-Wild West. This book brings the state to vivid life, in all its unique detail and rugged spirit.
New Jersey
Part of the United States: Past and Present series
Nicknamed the "Garden State," New Jersey is a fascinating place for students to study. This book covers all the basics, with chapters on the land, history, government, and major industries. There is a chapter on notable individuals including Grover Cleveland, Bruce Springsteen, and Queen Latifah. Every chapter contains a sidebar devoted to the past and present, which juxtaposes New Jersey of yesteryear with the present day. A timeline of important events and a listing of key facts are also included.