Books in Colonial Leaders series

A series that focuses on the some of the most influential activists, politicians and intellectuals who lived during the formation of early America, whose lives--from birth through childhood, family life, education, death and legacy--exemplify the hardships and trials of colonial times. The series meets standard biography requirements, includes full-color and black-and-white photographs, informative sidebars, a bibliography and other sources for further research, and a chronology and timeline of each subject's life.

Benjamin Banneker's life story is filled with extraordinary accomplishments. The son and grandson of former slaves, he taught himself mathematics, astronomy, and surveying while living on an isolated family farm. Banneker participated in surveying the site of the new Capitol of the United States, published several popular almanacs based on his observations of the stars, and even corresponded with Thomas Jefferson, sharing his hope that future president would change his position on slavery. During his lifetime, his accomplishments were frequently referred to as important evidence proving that skin color was no prediction of intelligence or ability, examples abolitionists later used. Benjamin Banneker relates the story of this remarkable man, bringing his story to life with engaging text, vivid photographs and illustrations, and handy reference features.

In an attempt to avoid persecution for his religious beliefs, William Bradford boarded the Mayflower for freedom in the New World. After a difficult and lengthy journey, what Bradford saw was "a desolate wilderness," a territory more than 500 miles from the closest English settlement and one in which he and the other colonists were not legally entitled to settle. Elected governor, Bradford established discipline among these new Americans, built a friendly relationship with the local Wampanoag tribe, and learned the necessary skills for planting crops and finding food. His success and writings continue to provide an accurate view of life as an early settler. Students will find a fascinating narrative in William Bradford about this governor who met with disappointment and success while leading the colonists in the New World.

A series that focuses on the some of the most influential activists, politicians and intellectuals who lived during the formation of early America, whose lives--from birth through childhood, family life, education, death and legacy--exemplify the hardships and trials of colonial times. The series meets standard biography requirements, includes full-color and black-and-white photographs, informative sidebars, a bibliography and other sources for further research, and a chronology and timeline of each subject's life.

A series that focuses on the some of the most influential activists, politicians and intellectuals who lived during the formation of early America, whose lives--from birth through childhood, family life, education, death and legacy--exemplify the hardships and trials of colonial times. The series meets standard biography requirements, includes full-color and black-and-white photographs, informative sidebars, a bibliography and other sources for further research, and a chronology and timeline of each subject's life.

In late December 1606, a party of Englishmen set sail for America, representing yet another effort by the English to establish a foothold in the New World. Twenty years earlier, a similar attempt with the Roanoke Colony had ended miserably, with all of its inhabitants completely disappearing. Yet Jamestown would ultimately succeed, due largely to the efforts of one individual Captain John Smith. A young man of only 27 years, Smith had already made a name for himself fighting battles from France to Constantinople. But his true destiny awaited him in America. John Smith narrates this intrepid adventurer's storied life, from his upbringing to the hardships he faced in the New World. Readers will benefit from the research features in the book, including informative sidebars, a bibliography and suggestions for further reading, and an index for quick reference.

A series that focuses on the some of the most influential activists, politicians and intellectuals who lived during the formation of early America, whose lives--from birth through childhood, family life, education, death and legacy--exemplify the hardships and trials of colonial times. The series meets standard biography requirements, includes full-color and black-and-white photographs, informative sidebars, a bibliography and other sources for further research, and a chronology and timeline of each subject's life.