An American History Album: The Story of the United States Told Through Stamps

A unique record of the history of the United States. Throughout its history, the United States has celebrated its achievements, honored its heroes and recorded its history by issuing beautiful commemorative postage stamps. These stamps tell us about the discovery and settlement of the land; advances in transportation and communication; the wonders of the American wilderness; and the accomplishments of political, military and civic leaders who served the republic and shaped its future. Created by the United States Post Office to honor significant events and important people, these stamps offer us a unique and proud look at America's history. An American History Album takes a look at the stories behind these miniature works of art-why they were issued and who or what they honor. Created by some of the best artists and finest engravers of their day, these stamps fashion a visual portrait of the history, values and accomplishments of the United States. Through their research for this book the authors identified more than 50 major themes of the American story that have been commemorated in stamps. An American History Album will appeal to history buffs, stamp collectors, educators, art enthusiasts and general readers. It serves as a graphic reminder that the American dream, as crafted in the Declaration of Independence and the American Constitution, remains alive and well. Here are just some of the stories told inside An American History Album:Columbus' Epic VoyageThe Pilgrims and the PuritansThe Louisiana PurchaseInto the WildernessThe American RevolutionThe War Between the StatesRemember the AlamoThe Settlement of the WestThe Transcontinental RailroadBuilding the Global VillageThe Great DepressionThe Second World WarThe Story of FlightThe Cold War in AmericaPutting a Man on the MoonThe Office of the PresidentProtecting the WildernessThe Story of the FlagAmerica's Armed Forces The themes include:Heritage and Values: the ideas, symbols, beliefs and institutions that make America uniqueDiscovery and Exploration: how the New World was discovered and the 13 colonies were establishedNeighbor Against Neighbor: how the Revolutionary War and the War Between the States shaped the nationManifest Destiny: how the pioneers pushed westward across the wilderness to reach the PacificTransportation and Communication: how ships, canals, railroads, automobiles and the telegraph tied the early nation togetherThe Greatest Generation: the profound effect of the Great Depression and World War II on a nation and its spiritThese United States: a brief look at each state and the postage stamp that honors itThe Art of the Stamp: a fascinating look at how stamp subjects are chosen and designs created Read more