Keys to American History: Understanding Our Most Important Historic Documents

Unlock and explore American history firsthand though this nation’s most important documents. Much more than a reference book, The Keys to American History tells the story of a growing, vibrant democracy through its laws, Supreme Court rulings, treaties, and presidential speeches, from colonial times to the present. Organized chronologically, each document includes a brief introduction and excerpts, and often an image of the original. Most are followed by interesting and relevant historical quotes from books, newspapers, and speeches of their eras, providing a rich and varied framework to understand each document’s significance. The more than 60 entries include: • Mayflower Compact • Declaration of Independence • Washington’s Farewell Address • Missouri Compromise • Seneca Falls Declaration of Sentiments • Emancipation Proclamation • Homestead Act • Wilson’s Fourteen Points • Brown v. Board of Education • Voting Rights Act • Resignation Speech of Richard Nixon • …and more By reading the essential documents of American government, and the viewpoints of the leaders and citizens who wrote them, you will gain a profound understanding of the United States and the men and women who built it.