Discovering the American Past

This primary source reader in the popular Discovering series contains a multi-part pedagogical framework that guides students through the process of historical inquiry and explanation. The text emphasizes historical study as interpretation rather than memorization of data. The Sixth Edition integrates new documents and revised coverage throughout. Appearing in Volumes I and II, the Reconstruction chapter uncovers the work ethic of farmers and workers in the West and North following the Civil War. Each chapter is organized within the same pedagogical framework: The Problem, Background, The Method, The Evidence, Questions to Consider, and Epilogue.