Wilentz, Sean

Discusses the major egalitarian victories in United States history, and the politics that have shaped social movementsthat have transformed the nation's political and moral character.

Twenty-three fiction and nonfiction writers, songwriters, and cartoonists, such as Joyce Carol Oates, Luc Sante, Paul Muldoon, and R. Crumb, present their own versions of American ballads from throughout the art form's history, including "Barbara Allen," "John Brown's Body," "Dead Man's Curve," and "Nebraska.".

Chronicles the life of Andrew Jackson, discussing his childhood in the Carolina backcountry, early military career, emergence as a national hero, efforts to overturn corruption in Washington, years as president, and other related topics.

Examines the life of American singer-songwriter and musician Bob Dylan, discussing his influence, musical and literary work, legacy, and other related topics.