Books in Sidelights on American History series

In the 19th century, thousands of Americans left their homes behind and set out for a life on the western frontier. This period of westward expansion had a huge hand in shaping the culture and identity of the United States. This title explores the push and pull factors that encouraged settlers to migrate, including the Homestead Act and similar policies. The text uses historical context and primary sources to provide a comprehensive look at westward expansion. Written to support elementary social studies curricula, readers will walk away with an understanding of the 19th century American West and the legacy settling it left behind.

"While Crisps Attucks was the first American to die for the cause of liberty he was not the only African American patriot. This informational text looks at Attucks life, his murder at the Boston Massacre and the determination of colonists to be free of Britain's tyrannical rule. This book, however, also looks at other African American patriots who fought at Lexington and Concord and other battles and who bravely fought for the nation's freedom and their own"--Provided by publisher.

American foreign policy has been shaped for almost 200 years by the words of President James Monroe. What did Monroe's words mean, and how did they create a uniquely American foreign policy? Readers find the answers to these questions and many more as they explore the major points of the Monroe Doctrine. They also discover the historical circumstances that influenced the Monroe Doctrine, as well as the actions taken throughout American history because of it. The detailed text supports common social studies curriculum topics, and it's paired with exciting historical images and informative primary sources.

In 1848, a carpenter discovered gold in the American River near Sacramento. His discovery launched the California gold rush, which is considered the single largest migration in U.S. history. This title paints a picture of the gold seekers, miners, and merchants who shaped the culture of 19th California as they attempted to strike it rich. Readers will love learning about this exciting time in history, which is brought to life through primary sources and historical photographs. This engaging title reinforces important social studies concepts, which aids in supporting classroom learning.

The United States didn't expand from the 13 original states to its present size all at once. Many different events took place to shape the country into what it is today. Readers explore the details behind many of these events, including the purchase of Alaska and the signing of the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo. These essential social studies curriculum topics are introduced in a clear and engaging way. Carefully chosen primary sources and other historical images allow readers to immerse themselves in this important period of U.S. expansion.

This book introduces students to the events that inspired the colonists to take action against British taxes, and the famous act of rebellion known as the Boston Tea Party. Full-color images and carefully chosen primary source materials bring students into the world of one of the most important events on the road to the American Revolution. Accessible, compelling text will engage readers and encourage their interest in learning more about our country’s rich history.