Sweeping into the office of U.S. president with his mesmerizing oratory of hope and change, Barack Obama forever transformed American politics. As the first African American to hold the title, his election represented a historic milestone, both socially and politically. The 44th president's remarkable journey from Hawaii and Indonesia to Chicago and the White House is chronicled, and the major issues—including the financial crisis, healthcare, and...

Although most people would scarcely be able to make it through the day without using some type of electronic device-computers, televisions, and MP3 players, to name a few-the inner workings of such devices remain a mystery to many. This insightful volume examines various components, such as electron tubes and semiconductors, that have been essential to electronics over the years, as well as the history of the field in general and its applications...

Nowhere can intricacies of the ideological, regional, and economic tensions that erupted into the American Civil War be better seen than in the individual actors who fought both on and off the battlefields and on either side for what they believed. While some vigorously struggled for emancipation, others vehemently resisted such a notion, while still others were motivated primarily by regional loyalties and the desire to preserve the only way of life...

Though he had less than three years in office, John F. Kennedy made a lasting and profound mark as U.S. president. Deftly handling the Cuban Missile Crisis and supporting civil rights laws and the space race, Kennedy represented the promise for a better future. Readers examine the life of the accomplished and charismatic 35th president whose life and term were tragically ended too soon.

Bacteria, algae, and protozoa-microorganisms that are easily overlooked in our daily lives-can be found in a wide variety of locations and serve innumerable ecological purposes. While some such organisms have been associated with disease, they have also been invaluable in agriculture and in the production of certain foods, medicines, and other necessities. This informative volume examines the properties and uses of these powerful and essential life...

For many of us, plants herald the change of seasons, represent the promise of nourishment, or serve as stunning visual reminders of Earth's natural beauty. As vital components of nearly every ecosystem on the planet, plants play a fundamental ecological role in the lives of most organisms for their utility in food and clothing production, fuel, shelter, and a host of other activities. Complete with images and diagrams depicting the parts and growth...

The seventh president of the United States, Andrew Jackson is often remembered for his "firsts"; he was the first leader from west of the Appalachians and the first to win office by directly appealing to the American people, rather than relying on association with a political party. A military hero during the War of 1812, Jackson brought the same determination and strength of character he showed on the battlefield to the presidency. Lively text recounts...

Examines John F. Kennedy's early life and career, rise in politics, tenure as the United States' thirty-fifth president, and assassination.