This panoramic volume, with fascinating introduction by Arthur M. Schlesinger Jr., traces the entire story of the American experience, from the first settlers who arrived in the New World to the latest policy statement from the White House. Illustrated with more than 200 line drawings and maps, it is the most comprehensive single-volume reference work on the United States ever published. This book includes: Over 8,00 chronological, day-by-day entries covering every major event in Americas History. More than 170 biographies of famous personalities in American History, from Christopher Columbus to George W. Bush. Over 120 concise essays on topics of special historical interest, from the ancient essays on topics of special historical interest, from the ancient mound builders to the recent war in Iraq. Special entries on key developments in the arts, science, society, and the economy for most pivotal years and for every year between 1788 and the present. More than 200 illustrations, including many historic photographs, drawings, and maps. A comprehensive index for easy cross-referencing. An introduction by Arthur M. Schlesinger, Jr., as well as six more extended essays, each by a noted historian, introducing the major periods in our nation's history. - from Amzon