Unlike some other reproductions of classic texts (1) We have not used OCR(Optical Character Recognition), as this leads to bad quality books with introduced typos. (2) In books where there are images such as portraits, maps, sketches etc We have endeavoured to keep the quality of these images, so they represent accurately the original artefact. Although occasionally there may be certain imperfections with these old texts, we feel they deserve to be made available for future generations to enjoy.

The name 'Alabama' comes from the Choctaw word meaning "clearers of the thickets," inspiring the title of this fascinating new book. It examines Alabama's early history, beginning with the era of European colonization and culminating with the state's controversial secession from the Union-after just 41 years as a state (recognizing, of course, that the actual history began long before, with Native American civilizations). In so doing, the author traces how Alabama emerged from a raw frontier of European settlement into a fully functioning state that provided much-needed order to its new citizens. The book begins by exploring the colonial period during which three European powers-Spain, France, and Great Britain-continually vied for control of what was to become part of Alabama. Each culture, along with the Native American communities that lived throughout most of the region, contributed to the development of the emerging territory and left its enduring stamp. Later chapters examine Alabama's territorial period, the Creek War of 1813-1814, the Constitutional Convention of 1819 and statehood, the first years of state government in Cahaba, removal of the capital to Tuscaloosa, King Cotton and the ignominy of slavery, further relocation of the capital to Montgomery as secession loomed, and social and economic advances during the antebellum period that were interrupted and stunted by the tragedy of secession and war. "'Clearing the Thickets' is narrative history in the grand old style-a spirited effort to make sense of the ideas, human beings, and events that came together to shape Alabama's first tumultuous decades. ... Anyone interested in antebellum Alabama will be grateful for what Lewis has accomplished." -Paul Pruitt, Jr., Special Collection Librarian, University of Alabama; author of 'Taming Alabama: Lawyers and Reformers, 1804-1929' (2010)

No Swiss watch brand has a more powerful reputation than Rolex. The name has long been synonymous with luxury watches of enormous prestige and the highest quality. Since the Genevan manufacturer's founding by Hans Wilsdorf in 1908, these precious timepieces have become coveted around the world. In this overview, become acquainted with Rolex's exciting history, which has been almost constantly characterized by success and expansion. At the same time, examine the highlights of the most important models, primarily from the current collection, presented here in detailed images with complete technical specifications and accurate prices. This compact volume is a fine starting point for the novice collector and an efficient guide for the aficionado.

A young rebel named Antoni Norbert Patek de Prawdzic fled war-torn Poland in 1832 and embarked upon a career path that led him to watchmaker Jean-Adrien Philippe, inventor of the revolutionary built-in crown winding mechanism. In the 160 years since the pair founded Patek Philippe, the line has remained, without a doubt, one of the most traditional and noble watch manufacturers in the world. This illustrated book couples the most exclusive and beautiful timepieces the Genevan brand has ever manufactured with informative history and alluring photographs. Featured inside are several of the most popular examples from three of the company's outstanding watch families: the uncomplicated but cherished Calatrava collection, the groundbreaking sports line Nautilus, and the cross-generational Gondolo family. Each watch is accompanied by a complete list of technical specifications. This book is an essential acquisition for both casual fans and long-time connoisseurs of the brand.

In this richly illustrated work, watch expert Herbert James recounts the exciting histories and notable moments of the 23 most famous watch brands in the world and the histories of their most legendary models, with more than 290 wristwatches included. In this updated edition, the list of luxury watchmakers, with names such as A. Lange & Söhne or Blancpain, Breitling, Cartier, and Glashütte Original through to Rolex and Zenith, has been expanded to include the IWC, Longines, and Tudor brands. The 272 pages of this handbook offer fascinating insights into international watch culture.

Praise for Achieving Class A Business Excellence

"Achieving Class A Business Excellence is a shockingly realistic look at the per-sonal tendencies, biases, and organizational inertia that leaders must overcome to truly transform their companies. Achieving business excellence requires two steps: attaining excellence and sustaining it through continuous improvement. Achieving Class A Business Excellence is the rare book that demonstrates a proven path to accomplishing both."
--Richard Burns, former global product supply director,

Procter & Gamble, NA Class A Implementation Leader

"Global Operations are complex, and most companies plan and execute poorly because they address them functionally and rely on spot solutions to major issues. The authors take us back to the basics, show us operations in a comprehensive and integrated light, and do it in a story format that should appeal to most executives who want direction and are tired of buzz words. An excellent book."
--Christopher Gopal, Executive Vice President, Worldwide Operations,

Open Energy Corporation

"This is a great book for any business leader looking for a path to better organizational performance. The dramatization depicted in Achieving Class A Business Excellence presents a clear option using the proven path for making dramatic organizational change. With all of the alternative approaches available, this book provides an outstanding methodology for reaching and sustaining business excellence."
--Don Allen, Senior Vice President, Operations, CorePharma, LLC

"An excellent depiction of the dedication and persistence required to deliver transformational change and the resultant improvement. This bookdoesn't sidestep the hard issues faced by executives trying to improve and sustain performance in today's rapidly evolving operational environment."
--Jason Thorne, Director, ABeam Consulting USA

"This book absolutely hits the bull's-eye on what it takes to dive into the issues plaguing underperforming companies and, most importantly, how to address those issues with a Class A-Best Industry Practice solution to turn any company into a top-performing profitable business. Excellent book!"
--Randy Gast, Vice President, Corporate Operations, 3PAR Inc.