Reviews

Known to emphasize how "to secure the minority against the usurpation and tyranny of the majority, " the post-Revolution era's Antifederalists were among the strongest advocates of personal freedoms, promoting key ideas for the Bill of Rights, i.e., the first Ten Amendments to the U.S. Constitution. Insights into their leaders' writings, speeches, and biographies are the main focus of historian Wakelyn's reference book (much of his previous writings had focused on the U.S. Civil War). The first volume of the set includes biographies of 140 influential Antifederalists, among them Samuel Adams, George Clinton, and Patrick Henry, while the second collects their major writings at state ratifying conventions. These primary documents, along with new information about their early political careers and revolutionary activities, elucidate their diverse reasons for opposing the U.S. Constitution. Readers will appreciate having access to pamphlets, speeches, and newspaper articles that give a basis for individual rights and governmental authority in our society. Bottom Line A useful reference resource for scholars and students, this work is recommended for academic and larger public libraries.-Steven Puro, St. Louis Univ. Copyright 2004 Reed Business Information.

Gr 6-9-A handsomely packaged set offering information on 16 nations. An introduction, identical in each volume, provides the parameters, context, and basic definitions for the discussions that follow. In addition to covering the history, geography, and economy of each country, the alphabetical articles include subsections on religion and beliefs, everyday life (e.g., food and clothing), holidays and festivals, and the arts. Occasional brief inserts highlight a fact, individual, event, tradition, or recipe. The text remains neutral while acknowledging regional conflicts and issues. Each entry offers fast facts, a map, and a time line of events (through 2003, for some countries). Well-selected, black-and-white photographs and drawings are interspersed throughout. Each volume contains a specific glossary and bibliography. A major strength of this set is the inclusion of some of the smaller nations in the region.-Linda Greengrass, Bank Street College Library, New York City Copyright 2004 Reed Business Information.