About the Author

William Pencak is professor of history and Jewish Studies at Pennsylvania State University. His was a runner-up for the National Book Award in American Jewish History for his book Jews and Gentiles in Early America, 1654-1800.

Reviews

This volume, one in a series of such reference works on political eras and politics, is written by Pencak (Penn State Univ.), a noted professor with over 30 years' experience in the field of colonial history. It features brief A-Z entries on people, places, organizations and institutions, issues, and events relevant to the period 1607-1763. That said, the volume encompasses a good deal more than what is commonly accepted as the colonial period in American history. Over four pages of the volume's time line are devoted to the period prior to 1607, as are parts of the introduction, the appendixes, and the bibliography. Appendixes provide information on English monarchs and prime ministers (1491-1782), as well as estimated colonial population and colonial governors. This book is not only an excellent starting point for research in colonial history, but also valuable for individuals interested in the European superpowers (i.e., France, Spain, England) in the 15th century. The 400 cross-referenced entries, appendixes, and extensive and well-organized bibliography (171 pages) make this an invaluable resource for students and researchers at any level. Summing Up: Highly recommended. Lower-level undergraduates through researchers/faculty; general readers.
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