'This is the best one-volume, one-author textbook on US history available today. Kuklick takes us on a vibrant journey through American history in a textbook that excels with its engaging narrative and bold perspectives. He guides us from the European political, philosophical, and religious influences on the early Republic to the global imprint of American culture and geopolitics today. This is a fascinating tale that puts people at the center, from the first migrants of the Ice Age to the polarizing politicians of the present. This book offers a compelling exploration that resonates with students and provides food for thought for all readers.'

Jaap Verheul, Utrecht University, Netherlands

'Bruce Kuklick clearly explains complex historical topics in a few sentences. His concise and often provocative history of the United States challenges students to question assumptions and to think in clear and lucid ways about the role of religion and power in American history.'

Paul Murphy, Professor of History, Grand Valley State University, USA

Praise for previous editions:

'A readable and provocative political history of the United States that puts religion and culture at the heart of the narrative.'

Andrew Heath, University of Sheffield, UK

'It might seem miraculous for a relatively short textbook by a single author to treat the entire political history of the United States with comprehensive thoroughness alongside lightly-worn learning and sparkling wit. But miracles do happen, and Bruce Kuklick has done it. The first edition of A Political History of the United States was excellent as a succinct but authoritative account of American history from the colonial period to the present. The revisions for this edition have made the book even better.'

Mark Noll, University of Notre Dame, USA

'How refreshing it is to encounter a textbook distinguished by a very un-textbook-like capacity to say what is most important about this or that historical episode rather than just 'covering' what everyone else covers. This is a wonderfully analytic, sharply formulated book that will give students direct access to what they most need to know.'

David A. Hollinger, University of California, Berkeley, USA