Acknowledgements

A number of people helped make this book possible. My first debt is to the scholars of modern America whose work provides the intellectual foundation for this book. I am grateful to Douglas Miller, a talented graduate student at the University of Oklahoma, who read every chapter and offered a number of constructive suggestions. I would also like to thank all the colleagues who have reviewed past editions of the book: Phil McCaskey, Cape Fear Community College; Rick Moniz, Chabot College; Jacqueline Moore, Austin College; Pam Pennock, University of Michigan–Dearborn; Emilie Raymond, Virginia Commonwealth University; Patrick Reagan, Tennessee Tech University; Howard Smead, University of Maryland; Jason Sokol, Cornell University; and Karin Zipf, East Carolina University.

At FlatWorld, I am indebted to Associate Digital Editor Lindsey Kaetzel, whose title does not do her justice. She was involved in every stage of the development of this project and made many useful suggestions for making the book more readable and more appealing to students. Copyeditor Steve Paradis provided this edition with a smart and thorough read. His helpful suggestions enhanced the book's overall clarity and emphasis on recent topics. Volker Janssen, Professor of History, California State University, Fullerton, researched several new primary sources, identified memorable video content, and prepared supplemental materials. My greatest debt, however, is to Sean Wakely, the Vice President of Product and Editorial. I met Sean about three decades ago when he convinced me to write a survey textbook, The American Experiment. Since then we have worked together on new projects and on numerous revisions of existing projects. I have come to trust his judgment and integrity, along with his commanding knowledge of the college textbook industry.

The book is dedicated to the Ryan family. Jim and Kate Ryan have welcomed me into their lives, providing me with an endless supply of affection, support, and guidance. They have also allowed me to experience the joy of spending time with their wonderful children—Will, Sam, Ben, and Phebe.

Steven M. Gillon

Miami Beach, Florida