Discovering the American Past by Susan Becker, Susan D. Becker, William Bruce Wheeler (2006, Paperback)

This primary source reader in the popular Discovering series contains a multi-part pedagogical framework that guides students through the process of historical inquiry and explanation. The text emphasizes historical study as interpretation rather than memorization of data.

The Sixth Edition integrates new documents and revised coverage throughout. Appearing in Volumes I and II, the Reconstruction chapter uncovers the work ethic of farmers and workers in the West and North following the Civil War. Each chapter is organized within the same pedagogical framework: The Problem, Background, The Method, The Evidence, Questions to Consider, and Epilogue.

• New! With new organization and source selection, Chapter 3 in Volume I delves further into life in colonial Chesapeake Bay.
• New! In Volume I, Chapter 9, students explore the following question: Was there a British abolitionist conspiracy to block the United States' annexation of Texas in order to halt the westward expansion of slavery?
• New! Completely revamped, Chapter 10 in Volume I sheds light on "The Port Royal Experiment" in the South Carolina Sea Islands during the Civil War.
• New! In Volume II, Chapter 4 now focuses on Progressivism-with special emphasis on women and children.
• New! Chapter 8 in Volume II provides insight into war with Japan in the 1940s.