A survey of 12 leading high school U.S. History textbooks has resulted in the opinion put forth in this book that the textbooks currently used in high schools are an embarrassing amalgam of bland optimism, blind patriotism, and misinformation. In addition to critiquing existing textbooks, the book also suggests how U.S. History should be taught. Discussing issues beginning with pre-Columbus American history and ranging over characters and events as diverse as Reconstruction, Helen Keller, the first Thanksgiving, and the My Lai massacre, the 12 chapters in this volume attempt to supply the conflict, suspense, unresolved drama, and connection with issues that are missing from current textbook accounts. (RJC)