Summaries of books about U.S. History:
102 Minutes
The Unforgettable Story of the Fight to Survive Inside the Twin Towers
Jim Dwyer|Kevin Flynn
The book chronicles the harrowing experiences of individuals inside the World Trade Center from the first plane's impact until the towers' collapse, detailing their struggles for survival. It provides a minute-by-minute account based on interviews, radio transcripts, and other sources, offering a human perspective on the tragic events of September 11, 2001.
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The American Spirit
Who We Are and What We Stand For
David McCullough
The book is a collection of speeches by the historian that reflect on pivotal moments in American history, emphasizing the country's founding principles and the notable figures who shaped its national identity. It encourages a sense of patriotism and responsibility by drawing lessons from the past to inspire contemporary Americans.
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The Last Stand
Custer, Sitting Bull, and the Battle of the Little Bighorn
Nathaniel Philbrick
The book delves into the events leading up to and including the infamous 1876 Battle of the Little Bighorn, where General George Armstrong Custer's 7th Cavalry was defeated by Native American forces led by Sitting Bull. It provides a detailed account of the clash from both military and Native American perspectives, exploring the personalities, strategies, and historical context of this pivotal moment in American history.
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A Different Mirror
Ronald Takaki
The book presents a multi-ethnic history of the United States, exploring the narratives and experiences of various minority groups that have shaped the nation's history. It challenges the traditional Anglo-centric perspective by highlighting the contributions and struggles of Native Americans, African Americans, Asian Americans, and others.
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Ship of Gold in the Deep Blue Sea
The History and Discovery of the World's Richest Shipwreck
Gary Kinder
The book chronicles the sinking of the SS Central America, a steamship carrying a vast treasure of gold, during a hurricane in 1857 and details the modern quest to recover its lost riches led by engineer Tommy Thompson in the 1980s. It combines historical narrative with the technological and legal challenges faced by the explorers in locating and salvaging the shipwreck deep beneath the Atlantic.
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The Swamp Fox
How Francis Marion Saved the American Revolution
John Oller
The book chronicles the life and military exploits of Francis Marion, a guerrilla warfare leader during the American Revolution, highlighting his strategic use of the South Carolina swamps to outmaneuver British forces. It details his pivotal role in disrupting enemy communications, supply lines, and fortifications, ultimately contributing significantly to the colonial victory.
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Tombstone
The Earp Brothers, Doc Holliday, and the Vendetta Ride from Hell
Tom Clavin
The book chronicles the legendary exploits of Wyatt Earp, his brothers, and the gambler Doc Holliday in the Wild West, focusing on their roles in the Gunfight at the O.K. Corral and the subsequent vendetta ride. It delves into the lawmen's battles with outlaws in Tombstone, Arizona, providing a detailed account of their quest for justice and the violent period of American frontier history.
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Black Flags, Blue Waters
The Epic History of America's Most Notorious Pirates
Eric Jay Dolin
The book delves into the golden age of piracy in the Americas, exploring the lives and exploits of infamous pirates who terrorized the Atlantic coast, including figures like Blackbeard and Captain Kidd. It also examines the impact of piracy on colonial development and the eventual crackdown by authorities that led to the pirates' decline.
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We Will Rise
A True Story of Tragedy and Resurrection in the American Heartland
Steve Beaven
The book chronicles the aftermath of a tragic plane crash that claimed the lives of the University of Evansville basketball team in 1977, detailing the community's grief and the inspiring story of how the school and its supporters worked to rebuild the program and heal from the devastating loss. It explores the resilience and unity of the small Indiana town as they come together to honor the victims and forge a path forward.
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The Island at the Center of the World
Russell Shorto
The book delves into the history of Dutch Manhattan, exploring the founding of New York City when it was a Dutch colony called New Amsterdam. It highlights the cultural and political influences of the Dutch settlers that have persisted in American society, based on extensive research from 17th-century documents.
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