The Making of America: The History of the United States from 1492 to the Present

by Robert D. Johnston, Douglas Brinkley (Foreword)

Trace 500 years of American history in this fascinating family reference—now updated to include the most significant developments of our time. You’ll pore over landmark events, intriguing facts, and compelling biographies. Period art and photography bring past events to life. Maps detail the course of wars, migration, and expansion. Illustrated time lines present history at a glance.
Fun to read and easy to use—whether for homework, casual browsing, or in-depth exploration—this book is a supremely inviting guide to American history.

Genres: History, Nonfiction

240 pages, Hardcover

First published October 1, 2002

Reviews

[Daniel · Rating 1 out of 5]

“The sale price of $2.99 leaves enough out of a $5 bill to buy all of the salt you will need to cure all the garbage you will read in this so-called history book.” -Curtis Allen, 2011

[Brendan Corpuz · Rating 4 out of 5]

My thoughts of the book "The Making of America Revised Edition: The History of the United States from 1492 to the Present" by Robert D. Johnston was that it was a great book. It's about and set in the making of America from its roots to now. The characters are the people that have affected the US to be like how it is today. The characters could be people like George Washington, Martin Luther King Junior, or even its people. These are the people that America has looked up to and they surly deserve a spot up there for monumental people. There are many quotes in the book like, "And so, my fellow Americans: ask not what your country can do for you—ask what you can do for your country.
-John F. Kennedy which shows historical accuracy. Lastly, there is some problems I have with the book. It sometimes glosses over major events, like the Watergate Scandal, and goes way to slow and boring in some sections. It's a bit bias to liberal movements and always show the other side as evil. Overall, though there is some problems, I enjoyed it for being very smooth and smart.

[Sam Urquhart · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this book in an attempt to increase my knowledge of American history. Growing up, I wasn’t interested in my history classes, but I’ve become more interested as of the last year or so.

This book gives a very general overview of the history of America. It mostly touches on the very important parts of American history, and for me that was great. I don’t think anyone should approach this book expecting an in-depth analysis of our country’s founding, but it provides just enough information for you to understand (on a superficial level) many of the basic conflicts and triumphs our country has had.

And hey, I finally know what Watergate is now!

[Brittany · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good book for its type. Sort of a coffee table textbook style book about the history of the US from Colonial times on. We read mostly the beginning, and but forgot to read more as the school year went in. (That's kinda life.) Still, it is great for reference and pictures when looking at certain events or times in our country's history.

[Ahmed Babar · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wanted a quick rundown of more than two centuries of American history and politics. This book did that perfectly. Loved it!

[Xdengg · Rating 4 out of 5]

It is written from a Patriot American, Western, White, and Christian-centered perspective, which inherently comes with limitations, especially for children who lack independent judgment and may be influenced by the book’s viewpoints.

However, it is undeniable an excellent book presenting American history within its given length and reading difficulty. It is a perfect introductory book, showing both the ugly and beautiful aspects of historical events, while also encouraging ongoing discussion and reflection. For adults, who can form their own judgments, it can be read with a critical perspective. It can also serve as a U.S. travel guide, and the further exploring websites list is helpful as well.

[Ines · Rating 2 out of 5]

A right wing adaption of history, that blames the Cherokees for revolting after the Trail of Tears, but pardons Jefferson for slavery. Henretta provides a much deeper understanding of American History.

[Natalie · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is just okay. The illustrations, maps, and timelines are great but the text is only marginally engaging. Keep in mind, too, that history is always shaded by the opinions of the writer. Some writers try to hide it. This one does not.

[Dave · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very nice synopsis of the subject.

[Kate Hastings · Rating 4 out of 5]

For ESL learners and people who want everything about the United States in a one-book overview.

[Karan Johnstone · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good book.

[Theresa · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Making Of America: The History of the United States from 1492 to the Present
a historical look at the us

[Elizabeth Wyatt · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great informative read, presented in a simple and clear way, that I really enjoyed. I love reading children's non-fiction just for that purpose!

[Taryn · Rating 3 out of 5]

I thought this book went into interesting details and brought up interesting debate points. Although some parts were quite dry, it gave me some things to think about.