Summaries of books about U.S. History:
Stamped from the Beginning
The Definitive History of Racist Ideas in America
Ibram X. Kendi
The book chronicles the history of racial thought and racism in America, tracing its origins and evolution from the colonial era to the present day. It explores the lives and work of five major figures in American history, examining how their contributions have shaped the enduring narrative of racist and antiracist ideas.
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Killing England
The Brutal Struggle for American Independence
Bill O'Reilly|Martin Dugard
The book offers a historical narrative of the American Revolution, focusing on the violent and dramatic events that led to the United States' independence from British rule. It delves into the lives and decisions of key figures such as George Washington, Benjamin Franklin, and King George III, providing a detailed account of the battles, betrayals, and strategies that shaped the conflict.
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Killing Reagan
The Violent Assault That Changed a Presidency
Bill O'Reilly|Martin Dugard
The book delves into the events surrounding the assassination attempt on President Ronald Reagan by John Hinckley Jr. in 1981, exploring its impact on Reagan's presidency and the broader political landscape. It examines the motivations behind the attack, the aftermath, and the challenges Reagan faced in recovery, both physically and politically.
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Hidden Figures
The American Dream and the Untold Story of the Black Women Mathematicians Who Helped Win the Space Race
Margot Lee Shetterly
The book chronicles the lives and contributions of African American female mathematicians at NASA during the mid-20th century, highlighting their pivotal roles in major space achievements despite facing racial and gender discrimination. It focuses on the stories of Dorothy Vaughan, Mary Jackson, Katherine Johnson, and Christine Darden, who overcame barriers to play critical roles in the success of the United States in the space race.
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The Day the World Came to Town
9/11 in Gander, Newfoundland
Jim DeFede
The book recounts the experiences of the residents of Gander, Newfoundland, who hosted over 6,500 stranded passengers from 38 planes diverted on September 11, 2001. It details the acts of kindness and hospitality extended by the townspeople during an unprecedented moment of global crisis.
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The Great Influenza
The Story of the Deadliest Pandemic in History
John M. Barry
The book chronicles the 1918 flu pandemic, detailing its origins, spread, and impact on the world, while also delving into the scientific and medical communities' struggle to understand and contain the virus. It highlights the interplay between politics, war, and public health, and the lasting effects of the pandemic on society and science.
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Thomas Jefferson and the Tripoli Pirates
The Forgotten War That Changed American History
Brian Kilmeade|Don Yaeger
The book recounts the early 19th-century conflict between the United States and the Barbary pirates of North Africa, focusing on how President Thomas Jefferson chose to stand up to the pirates' demands for tribute. It details the ensuing naval battles and diplomatic maneuvers, highlighting the bravery of the fledgling U.S. Navy and the impact of the conflict on American maritime strength and foreign policy.
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George Washington's Secret Six
The Spy Ring That Saved the American Revolution
Brian Kilmeade|Don Yaeger
The book recounts the true story of the Culper Spy Ring, a group of six American spies who operated in New York and Long Island during the Revolutionary War to gather intelligence for George Washington. It details their daring operations, the methods they used to relay information, and the crucial role they played in the success of the American fight for independence.
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The Pioneers
The Heroic Story of the Settlers Who Brought the American Ideal West
David McCullough
The book chronicles the settling of the Northwest Territory, focusing on the resilient and visionary individuals who ventured into the Ohio River Valley. It details their challenges, achievements, and the establishment of communities based on ideals of freedom and education, shaping the expansion of the United States.
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Team of Rivals
The Political Genius of Abraham Lincoln
Doris Kearns Goodwin
The book delves into Abraham Lincoln's masterful leadership during the Civil War era, focusing on how he brought his former political opponents together into his cabinet, creating a powerful and diverse group that helped steer the nation through its most tumultuous period. It explores the relationships, rivalries, and interactions among Lincoln and his cabinet members, showcasing his ability to harness their talents and manage conflicting personalities for the greater good.
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