Discusses the period of growth in American history prior to the Civil War, describing the lives of people from a variety of backgrounds, including Jedediah Smith, Emily Dickinson, John James Audubon, and Sojourner Truth.
Covers American history from Washington's inauguration until the first quarter of the 19th century, including the Louisiana Purchase, Lewis and Clark's expedition, and the beginnings of abolitionism.
Examines the tragic period in United States history, focusing on the life of military leaders and soldiers on both sides, slave owners, abolitionists, and the average citizens who were affected by the horror of the war.