Winner of the 1973 Pulitzer Prize for history, Kammen addresses three themes concerning the state of historical inquiry in America. Beginning with how history as a professional discipline has changed over the past century, the book treats the relationship of the historian's craft to American nationalism, the value of historical knowledge, and the shifting attitudes of historians toward society. Kammen appraises the significance of historiography as a measure of cultural change and shows how the past has been manipulated for social and ideological reasons, and how memories of the national and regional past have conflicted with the realities of historical experience. He also explains how traditional modes of interpreting the past have lost their cohesive force and why historians should pursue new approaches to the cultural history. ISBN 0-8014-1924-7: $24.95.

Learn the basic skills and techniques you need for successful hand and machine sewing Over the past ten years, interest in sewing has grown. If want to learn how to sew or to improve your skills, Sewing For Dummies is the book you need to get started. This complete guide to sewing basics teaches you basic hand stitches and sewing machine operation, with easy-to-follow instructions and step-by-step illustrations. You'll work your way forward to develop the skills to create or repair clothing and furnishings that fit your personal style, your measurements, and your aesthetic. Find great patterns in stores and online, give thrift store finds new life, and learn about cool new fabrics and sewing trends. You'll also get an overview of common sewing mistakes and how to avoid them, so you can take up this relaxing, creative hobby with confidence. A full-color insert brings the text to life. Enjoy the feeling of accomplishment you'll get when you use your new skills to create wonderful handmade pieces. Learn hand and machine sewing skills, starting with the basics and working your way up Choose the right sewing machine for your needs and follow step-by-step tutorials to master its use Makes repairs and alterations to keep your wardrobe current Learn about online sewing resources and get ideas for finding fabric and patterns This Dummies guide will help anyone who wants to learn basic sewing skills or brush up on what they already know. Sew a button back on your jacket, make pillowcases from an old dress, alter that great vintage dress to fit like a glove, and complete any other sewing projects you can dream up.

In this second volume of two tracing the history of 20th-century American religion, Martin E. Marty tells the story of how America has survived religious disturbances and culturally prospered from them.

Add stylish flare to your bicycle with these 15 fashionable—and durable—sewing projects. For cyclists who want to take their style into high gear, The Happy Bicycle, by Kathy McGee of Hemma Designs, comprises a collection of 15 bicycle accessories that are functional and fun. Irresistibly charming, this book offers full-size patterns and step-by-step instructions for helmet covers, totes, embellished bells, baskets, and more. After all, shouldn't a bike look as good as it rides? “An astounding variety of DIY goodies to spruce up our two-wheelers. There's a great mix of functional and fun, practical and pretty to get us pimping our rides in no time!”—Generation Q Magazine

In her signature lighthearted style, Beth Ferrier reveals her personal arsenal of “sneaky tricks” for quiltmaking that make every part of the process easier and more fun! Beginners—you can easily master the basic techniques and then apply what you learn with these classic quilt projects, ranging from simple to a little more challenging. You’ll learn how to make every step simpler and better, including fabric choices, cutting, pressing, piecing, and finishing. Beth also shares organizing tips to help you make the most of your sewing time. Take advantage of Beth’s video tutorials online with links listed inside the book.