Master storyteller Joy Hakim has excited millions of readers from ages 9 to 99 with the great drama of American history in her award-winning series A History of US. Hailed by historians, educators, and parents for its exciting, thought-provoking narrative, the books have been recognized as a break-through tool in teaching history and critical reading skills to young people. And the kids themselves agree: Hakim has piles of fan letters as testimony.

The Freedom: A History of US companion book to the PBS series captures both the visual energy of the programs and Hakim's rare gift for telling history through the lives of its makers. The book follows the thread of the programs and also expands on them, providing a more complete picture of the people and events that shaped a defiant band of thirteen colonies into a great nation of 50 states. More than 4oo illustrations, sidebars, and historical documents enhance this stunning look at American history for families to share, discuss, and treasure. With a Foreword by President George W. Bush and Laura Bush, Freedom: A History of US is an essential book for every household in America, reminding us that great storytelling and a passion for freedom will always have a place at the table.

FOREWORD BY PRESIDENT GEORGE W. BUSH AND MRS. BUSH

INTRODUCTION Ordinary People

PART 1 Independence

PART 2 Revolution

PART 3 Liberey for All?

PART 4 Wake Up, America

PART 5 A Fatal Contradiction

PART 6 A War to End Slavery

PART 7 What Is Freedom?

PART 8 Whose Land Is This?

PART 9 Working for Freedom

PART 10 Yearning to Breathe Free

PART 11 Safe for Democracy?

PART 12 Depression and War

PART 13 Democracy and Struggles

PART 14 Let Freedom Ring

PART 15 Marching to Freedom Land

PART 16 Becoming Free

THE DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE

FREEDOM IN THE CONSTITUTION

INDEX

CREDITS