The Progressive Era

August 15, 2005
This volume employs the same approach as the other titles, with each of the eight narrative chapters reading more like a history textbook than a reference source. Jaycox ("The Colonial Era") covers the main American events from 1890 to1920, including the closing of the American frontier and the growth of cities, the growth of direct democracy with the passage of four constitutional amendments, the emergence of the United States as a world power, and the influx of immigrants from southern and eastern Europe. Each chapter is followed by a chronological table of significant events and an assortment of quoted eyewitness accounts from men and women who lived at the time. Economic conditions, social concerns, popular culture, and international events all receive attention. There are three appendixes: documents of the era, biographies of major personalities, and tables and maps. An extensive bibliography and index contribute to the book's usefulness. Scattered throughout the text are photographs and illustrations supplementing the historical record.

Bottom Line With its complete coverage of the Progressive Era, this work belongs in high school, public, and undergraduate libraries. Unlike the books from Gale's "American Decades" and "American History by Era"series, which belong in ready-reference collections, this is better suited for circulating collections. -Judith Klamm, Kansas City P.L., MO

Copyright 2005 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

February 1, 2006
Gr 9 Up -Eight chapters build a chronology from 1890 to 1920, allowing readers -to track the step-by-step development of several reform movements at the heart of progressivism, such as the beginning of conservation initiatives and the movement to end child labor. - Other topics include America -s rise to world power, 1898-1901; the impact of World War I; and the role of entertainment, sports, and the fine arts in defining the era. Each chapter includes a chronology that lists yearly events by month and relevant primary sources. The placement of first-person accounts within chapters is an outstanding feature, particularly for students who want to explore a range of viewpoints. Black-and-white captioned photographs illustrate the text. The book includes three appendixes: documents, including presidential addresses, passages excerpted from books, and Congressional legislation; -Biographies of Major Personalities -; and tables and maps. Overall, this useful tool will best be utilized by students needing to do in-depth research." -Patricia Ann Owens, Wabash Valley College, Mt. Carmel, IL"

Copyright 2006 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.