Short Synopsis
A one-of-a-kind guide to fifty of the most important cultural and historic sites in the United States guaranteed to fascinate, educate, and entertain—selected and described by the former director of the Smithsonian's National Museum of American History.

Full Synopsis
From Massachusetts to Florida to Washington to California, 50 Great American Places takes you on a journey through our nation's history. Sharing the inside stories of sites as old as Mesa Verde (Colorado) and Cahokia (Illinois) and as recent as Silicon Valley (California) and the Mall of America (Minnesota), each essay provides the historical context for places that represent fundamental American themes: the compelling story of democracy and self-government; the dramatic impact of military conflict; the powerful role of innovation and enterprise; the inspiring achievements of diverse cultural traditions; and the defining influence of the land and its resources.

Sites you would expect—in Boston, New York, and Washington, DC—are here, as well as plenty of surprises, such as the Palace of the Governors in Santa Fe, or Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta, or the Village Green in Hudson, Ohio; less obvious places that, together with the more well-known destinations, collectively tell the story of America. For families who want to take a trip that is both educational and entertaining, for history enthusiasts, or anyone curious about our country's greatest places, this book is the perfect guide.

“Ripe with historical insight, this work reminds us how much of our national identity has been shaped by these historic sites." ---Lonnie Bunch, Founding Director of the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture

“Brent D. Glass's 50 GreatAmerican Places is a bountiful treasure trove of essays about sanctified historic sites and cultural landmarks." ---Douglas Brinkley

“In 50 Great American Places, Brent Glass has combined scholarship about United States history with his passion for preserving our historic sites." ---Laura Bush

"An enlightening trip with an expert guide." ---Kirkus

"In this excellent book, Glass travels across the geographical breadth of the United States in his search for 'essential' historic sites. . . . It's a wonderful contribution to historical literacy, with a foreword by Pulitzer Prize-winning author David McCullough." ---Chicago Tribune

"Norman Dietz narrates each of these essays on America with an ear for the significance of the locale being described. . . . [he] take listeners on an aural journey through American culture and history." ---AudioFile