Originally published in 1996,this book traces the demographic growth in the American Indian population over the past forty years and the rise in native American activities during this century. Nagel focuses on the Red Power movement whose climax marked a shift in native American identification, from tribal association to a pan-Indian consciousness.

This Very Short Introduction demonstrates the pivotal role of law in American life. Chapters focus on the legal history of Indian tribes, slavery, property rights, the relationship of law to entrepreneurial activity, crimes and punishments, domestic relations, civil injuries and tort law, as well as legal education and the legal profession.

Between 1929 and 1945, two great travails were visited upon the American people: the Great Depression and World War II. This volume tells the story of how Americans endured, and eventually prevailed, in the face of the unprecedented calamaties of World War II.

The second edition of this Very Short Introduction focuses on the challenges facing American presidents in meeting the high expectations of the position in a separation of powers system.

Between 1760 and 1800, the people of the United States created a new nation, based on the idea that all people have the right to govern themselves. This Very Short Introduction recreates the experiences that led to the Revolution; the experience of war; and the post-war creation of a new political society.