Often overlooked because of their high degree of assimilation, people of German descent are actually the largest single ethnic group in the United States. German culture is far more rooted in America than commonly thought. For example, hot dogs, hamburgers and beer wouldn't be classic American staples without German immigrants. In addition to enormous contributions to mainstream beer culture and food culture, they have also added to America's agriculture, religious values and economy. This history highlights German contributions to America, examining their roles from the earliest colonies through the settlement of the Old Northwest and past the Interwar Period. While most German immigrants belonged to the main Lutheran and Reformed churches, a diverse cast of immigrant groups is encountered, including Moravians, Huguenots, and Rhinelanders. Through them, discover the long-standing history of the German descendants and their impact in the United States beginning more than 200 years ago.

Discusses the history and contributions of the Germans in America from colonial times to the present, noting prominent German Americans throughout American history.

LOOKING FOR HUMBOLDT shines a light on the German-American experience. The book records a journey of exploration through the colorful landscapes and cultures of the American Southwest. It tells the stories of an adventure-rich past, and of the roles played by Alexander v. Humboldt and a handful of early German immigrant soldiers and settlers. From the regional the narrative expands to the larger world of social movements and geopolitics.

Represents the German-American experience in the United States. Provides a German-American Chronology section to assist with orientation in historical time. Includes some of the key events in the history of Germany.