American Documents: The Declaration of Independence (Hardcover) (ISBN-13: 9780792253976)

Judith Lloyd Yero's lively, interactive book takes a close look at the document that defines democracy in the United States and the events that led to the country's creation. Readers learn about the escalation of unrest caused by the King's tax and trade laws, which culminated in the Boston Massacre and the Boston Tea Party. Period illustrations dramatize the evolution of the Declaration itself, and brief biographies highlight key figures such as Samuel Adams, Thomas Paine, and Thomas Jefferson. The document's four sections are examined: the preamble, the list of beliefs, the list of 27 complaints against the King, and the formal statement of independence. The text also discusses the unfinished business of the Declaration, such as slavery and women's rights, and stresses the need to protect the rights enshrined in the document. Included in the backmatter are the complete text of the Declaration of Independence, Jefferson's rough draft, and a portion of the Constitution of Virginia, which served as a model for the list of grievances against the King, with a web site reference to the entire document.

Author: Judith Yero,Judith Lloyd Yero
ISBN-10: 0792253973
ISBN-13: 9780792253976
Publisher: National Geographic Society
Language: English
Published: 06/13/2006
Pages: 40
Format: Hardcover
Weight: 0.86lbs
Size: 10.18h x 7.80w x 0.36d

Review Citation(s):
School Library Journal 05/01/2006 pg. 118
Hornbook Guide to Children 07/01/2006 pg. 438 - Recommended, Satisfactory