Books in America's Leaders series

Often overlooked and ignored, the vice president has become an increasing powerful and influential position in our government. The office has also changed significantly since the time it was first created more than 200 years ago. Because much of this office involves work "behind the scenes," the specific functions of the vice president are not well known by the public.

The shocking events of September 11--and the ensuing war against terrorism--thrust the secretary of defense into the spotlight and re-emphasized the great importance of this job. In addition to directing the efforts of more than 3 million people in the military, the secretary plays a key role in advising the president on military action and ensuring that all aspects of military action are carried out successfully.

Adults and kids alike often hear about the secretary of the interior in the news, but few truly understand what the secretary does. This person, in fact, oversees all the natural resources in the United States, including the management of all our national parks, seashores, forests, and monuments. As environmental concerns continue to mount each year, this job becomes increasingly critical.

They are some of the most powerful people in America. They influence our laws and the policies of our government. They are constantly in the news. More than any other group, these people affect our lives every day. But do we really know what they do and how they do it? American Leaders takes an in-depth look at the high-profile jobs that make up our unique federal institutions. As each book provides history and background, it also shows how each position fits into the huge organization we call the U.S. government.

They are some of the most powerful people in America. They influence our laws and the policies of our government. They are constantly in the news. More than any other group, these people affect our lives every day. But do we really know what they do and how they do it? American Leaders takes an in-depth look at the high-profile jobs that make up our unique federal institutions. As each book provides history and background, it also shows how each position fits into the huge organization we call the U.S. government.

This position was created in response to the terrorist attacks that took place on September 11, 2001. Controversy soon followed: Would the position be a cabinet one? What authority would the director have with regard to other federal agencies such as the FBI? Tom Ridge, the first director, soon found that much of his job involved helping to define just exactly what the post would be. This book explores the debates surrounding the position and the events that led to its creation.

They are some of the most powerful people in America. They influence our laws and the policies of our government. They are constantly in the news. More than any other group, these people affect our lives every day. But do we really know what they do and how they do it? American Leaders takes an in-depth look at the high-profile jobs that make up our unique federal institutions. As each book provides history and background, it also shows how each position fits into the huge organization we call the U.S. government.