The years between 1450 and 1550 marked the end of one era in world history and the beginning of another. Most importantly, the focus of global commerce and power shifted from the Mediterranean Sea to the Atlantic Ocean, largely because of the discovery of the New World. The New World was more than a geographic novelty. It opened the way for new human possibilities, possibilities that were first fulfilled by the British colonies of North America, nearly 100 years after Columbus landed in the Bahamas. The Historical Dictionary of Colonial America covers America's history from the first settlements to the end and immediate aftermath of the French and Indian War. This is done through a chronology, an introductory essay, appendixes, an extensive bibliography, and over 400 cross-referenced dictionary entries on the various colonies, which were founded and how they became those which declared independence. Religious, political, economic, and family life; important people; warfare; and relations between British, French, Spanish, and Dutch colonies are also among the topics covered. This book is an excellent access point for students, researchers, and anyone wanting to know more about Colonial America.

About the Author
William Pencak is professor of history and Jewish Studies at Pennsylvania State University. His was a runner-up for the National Book Award in American Jewish History for his book Jews and Gentiles in Early America, 1654-1800.

Reviews
This volume, one in a series of such reference works on political eras and politics, is written by Pencak (Penn State Univ.), a noted professor with over 30 years' experience in the field of colonial history. It features brief A-Z entries on people, places, organizations and institutions, issues, and events relevant to the period 1607-1763. That said, the volume encompasses a good deal more than what is commonly accepted as the colonial period in American history. Over four pages of the volume's time line are devoted to the period prior to 1607, as are parts of the introduction, the appendixes, and the bibliography. Appendixes provide information on English monarchs and prime ministers (1491-1782), as well as estimated colonial population and colonial governors. This book is not only an excellent starting point for research in colonial history, but also valuable for individuals interested in the European superpowers (i.e., France, Spain, England) in the 15th century. The 400 cross-referenced entries, appendixes, and extensive and well-organized bibliography (171 pages) make this an invaluable resource for students and researchers at any level. Summing Up: Highly recommended. Lower-level undergraduates through researchers/faculty; general readers. * CHOICE *



Book Information
ISBN 9780810855878
Author William A. Pencak
Format Hardback
Page Count 492
Imprint Scarecrow Press
Publisher Scarecrow Press
Weight(grams) 894g
Dimensions(mm) 239mm * 167mm * 41mm