Twentieth-Century America: A Brief History

by Thomas C. Reeves

Twentieth-Century America offers a succinct, comprehensive, and objective examination of recent American history. From Progressivism and the New Deal up to the present, Reeves covers all aspects of American history without burying students in unnecessary detail and trivia. This allows students to grasp the major developments and continuities of American history and to come away with a cohesive picture of the twentieth century. From William McKinley and the Wright Brothers to Michael Jordan and Monica Lewinsky, Reeves lays bare the whole of the twentieth century with an interpretation that strives for an unbiased and accurate presentation of the real story of American history. The author conveys vivid accounts of the changes in the political arena, public policy, popular culture, industry, economy, race, gender, and class that defined the times, and explores the great strides made in technology, living standards, working conditions, and education. He stresses social as well as
political and economic history, emphasizing the roles played by all Americans--including immigrants, minorities, women, and working people--and pays special attention to such topics as religion, crime, morality, public health, national prosperity, and the media. Reeves presents both sides of controversial subjects and is careful to point out which interpretations were most strongly supported. The recommended readings at the end of each chapter have been specifically selected to appeal to students and to acquaint them with the most readable and provocative books on each era. For a clear and fascinating look at the often exciting and always important history of the United States, Twentieth-Century America is an indispensable text for all students interested in a lucid historical overview of this country's past one hundred years.

Genres: American History, History, Nonfiction

314 pages, Paperback

First published May 18, 2000

About the author

A specialist in late 19th and 20th century American history, Thomas C. Reeves received his B.A. at Pacific Lutheran University, his M.A. at the University of Washington, and his Ph.D. in history at the University of California, Santa Barbara in 1966. After four years at the University of Colorado-Colorado Springs, he went on to become a professor of history at the University of Wisconsin–Parkside, where he taught until his retirement in 2001.

Reviews

[Katie Rea · Rating 3 out of 5]

I had to read this for my gov class and it was nice because each chapter was a bunch of summaries of the most important parts of the decades. But in today’s day and age it can be both sexist and outdated at times

[Mal · Rating 2 out of 5]

Very biased and full of historical inaccuracies, as well as lacking nuance when it comes to the social issues it describes. For example, the book describes Rosa Parks as a "tired seamstress" and not a trained racial equality advocate. The author describes women throughout history with whether or not they were attractive first. There are several less outdated, less biased, more accurate, and more nuanced history books out there, and there is no real reason to read this one.