The president of the United States is a highly visible public figure, a bearer of immense responsibility, and the subject of intense scrutiny. He is accountable for war, economic depression, domestic strife, national security, partisan politics, and overseas conflict. Presidents, Third Edition closely examines the hopes and disappointments, the victories and defeats, and the integrity and weaknesses of the men who have held this office. Featuring up-to-date information, including the January 2009 inauguration of Barack Obama, the first African-American president of the United States, this edition is an expertly written, detailed reference that narrates and explains the lives and careers of America's presidents. It is an essential guide for anyone seeking a complete understanding of the development and workings of the United States government, as well as a great read for students fascinated by the interplay of politics, power, career, and legacy. Comprehensive and accessible, Presidents, Third Edition contains biographies and portraits of all presidents, a detailed chronology of the life of each president, and suggested further reading about each president.

American democracy owes much to the rights guaranteed to individuals in the U.S. Constitution and specifically in its first 10 amendments, known as the Bill of Rights. Each book in the new six-volume American Rights set provides the history of a specific right or rights, from the right to vote to the right to bear arms. The volumes begin with brief colonial history, discussing the war fought by American Revolutionaries to gain independence from Great Britain - and their opportunity to decide what rights every American should possess. Coverage also includes later and ongoing struggles by groups such as women and people of color to gain these rights - both in law and in practice. Students will learn to appreciate the value of these rights by reading of the battles fought to secure them and, in some cases, by learning of their relative rarity around the world. Graphs, maps, photographs, and box features enhance the lively and accessible narrative, calling out important details and bringing this exciting material to life. Providing a wealth of information, American Rights is a thought-provoking, must-have set perfect for the young readers of today.