<p>One of the most authoritative texts on modern America, this concise, readable survey of twentieth century American history has been a reliable source for more than twenty years. The text has evolved from a book which primarily covered political and diplomatic history to one which devotes considerable space to areas of special interest such as African American history, women's history, urbanization, the role of ethnic groups, changing sexual mores, the power of corporations and the conflict of economic groups, and trends in regional and national values. The author offers contemporary interpretations and presents various sides of controversial issues.</p>