American Civilization is a comprehensive introduction to contemporary American life. It covers the key dimensions of American society including geography and the environment, immigration and minorities, government and politics, foreign policy, the legal system, the economy, social services, education, religion, the media and the arts. This fourth edition has been thoroughly revised and includes many updated illustrations and case studies, as well as coverage of the 2004 election, the second Gulf War, and the war on terrorism. American Civilization: · covers all core American Studies topics at introductory level · contains essential historical background for American Studies students at the start of the twenty-first century · analyzes gender, class and race and America's cosmopolitan population · has useful photographs, case studies, questions, terms for discussion and suggestions for websites for further research. American Civilization isa vital introduction to the crucial and complex identities of America.