Great American thinkers

The first African-American to earn a doctorate at Harvard, W. E. B. Du Bois went on to become one of history's most important civil rights activists. This text analyzes how Du Bois became a leading figure in American history and examines his most influential texts. Students will read and interpret his most important works within their historical context.

This founding father was the principal author of the document that would free the United States from Great Britain. He became one of the most influential presidents of the new nation. In this text, Jefferson's life and his greatest works are examined alongside the important historical events that influenced him. Students will analyze Jefferson's writings in order to understand their contemporary influence as well as their lasting influence today.

A leading author, philosopher, and activist, Thoreau's call to simple living has enticed readers for over one hundred years. Selections from Thoreau's most influential texts are analyzed in this book in order for students to better grasp Thoreau's life and the historical events that shaped his ideas.

"[Relates the story of] Alexander Hamilton's life, his role in the American Revolution, and the writings and policies he implemented that still affect Americans today"--Provided by publisher.

Thurgood Marshall is best known for being the first African-American Supreme Court justice. However, he also was the lawyer who successfully overturned Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka, which desegregated public schools. Court cases that Marshall presided over are analyzed in this text with important historical and biographical information to help students understand this influential American figure.

A biography of the American author and abolitionist, Harriet Beecher Stowe.