As the first in a series of books on America since 1945, Davies' book offers insightful historical interpretation as it examines sports as a microcosm of America's national life. From Americans' use of sports seasons (instead of weather seasons) to mark time�to the nation's propensity for neglecting its educational system in favor of putting resources into high school athletic programs�Davies presents facts and narratives that will provoke students to think critically about life in the United States.