Holt United States History: Student Edition Grades 6-8 Beginnings to 1914 2006

The book is lavishly illustrated in vibrant, many-hued pages. There are numerous maps, woodcuts and photos of over a century of events. Proper acknowledgment is also given to the many ethnic and religious groups that fused into the US during this period. Thus, there is good coverage of the Mexican War of 1846-7, which often received only cursory mention in earlier books. The war proved crucial in extending the US to its present border on the Rio Grande. The book also gives an extended foray into describing slavery. Its oppression is not deprecated in any sense. The Underground Railroad is shown sheparding escaped slaves to Canada; an often perilous task. High school students of history should benefit from this thoroughly researched and well presented book.