America's Bloody History from Columbus to the Gold Rush

April 1, 2018

Gr 8 Up-Four books cover violent episodes in U.S. history, from the early conflicts between Europeans and Native Americans to the current war on terror. Topics include events related to chattel slavery, subjugation of American Indians, wars, protests, revolts, assassinations, and mass shootings. Hardly a bloody episode is omitted, and in that respect, the volumes live up to their titles. However, no subject is explored in great depth, and most are referenced with only the briefest expository descriptions. The featured photographs and archival images are well reproduced but are similar to ones found in existing volumes. VERDICT Despite the comprehensive scope, browsers attracted by the intriguing titles will be disappointed with these mundane reads.

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