Discovering the American Past: A Look at the Evidence, Vol. 2: Since 1865

by William Bruce Wheeler, Susan D. Becker

This primary source reader in the popular Discovering series contains a multi-part pedagogical framework that guides students through the process of historical inquiry and explanation. The text emphasizes historical study as interpretation rather than memorization of data.The Sixth Edition integrates new documents and revised coverage throughout. Appearing in Volumes I and II, the Reconstruction chapter uncovers the work ethic of farmers and workers in the West and North following the Civil War. Each chapter is organized within the same pedagogical framework: The Problem, Background, The Method, The Evidence, Questions to Consider, and Epilogue.

Genres: History, American History, Nonfiction

336 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1986

Reviews

[Shannon]

Why aren't more historybooks like this? If they were, I'd have enjoyed/understood history far better when I was taught it in elementary school. Basically, this book is a collection of primary sources. This is awesome because it cuts down on the biases that historians may have when talking about past events. (Obviously, there is still SOME bias, in that you have to wonder what made them pick the documents they picked, what was left out, who is speaking in the documents - and how much we can generalize these sources, that is, their accuracy regarding post-civil war America). But yes. It probably helped that I had a good teacher guide me through this book. Still, props to the authors.

[American Eric]

Just another text book... It did a good job of stirring up some conversations in class. I had to give a presentation and write a paper on the chapter about the causes and effects of the attacks on Pearl Harbor.

[Matt]

Pretty well done. Organized and to the point. Great for seniors or freshmen in college.

[Max Thien]

Read for HIST17C: History Of The United States 1900-Present