A new, completely revised, expanded and updated edition of the million-selling New York Times bestseller that launched the entire Don't Know Much About® series

When Don't Know Much About® History first appeared thirteen years ago, it created a sensation. With humor, wit, great stories, and a trademark conversational style, the book brought Americans a fresh new take on history. Shattering myths and vividly bringing the past to life, it spent thirty-five consecutive weeks on the New York Times bestseller list. Davis proved that Americans don't hate history -- they just hate the dull textbook version they were force-fed in school. The book became an instant classic, an "anti -textbook" that has sold more than 1.3 million copies.

In his irreverent and popular question-and- answer style, Davis now returns with a completely revised edition that brings history right up to the moment -- covering such topics as the end of the Cold War, Clinton's impeachment, the bizarre election of 2000, and the events that led to September 11.

Incorporating new research and discoveries, Davis also updates and expands on such long-standing American controversies as the Jefferson-Hemings affair, the Alger Hiss trial, and the Rosenberg spy case. And he includes an expanded "civics lesson" that examines some of America's hottest social and political issues, such as the death penalty, gun control, and school prayer.

For history buffs and history-phobes alike, longtime fans who need a refresher course, and for a new generation of Americans who are still in the dark about America's past, Davis proves once more why People magazine said, "Reading him is like returning to the classroom of the best teacher you ever had."

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In his wildly entertaining, winningly irreverent, New York Times bestselling Don't Know Much About^® series, author Kenneth C. Davis has amused and edified us with fascinating facts about history, mythology, the Bible, the universe, geography, and the Civil War.

Now, the sky's the limit in his latest irresistible installment—a grand tour of knowledge that carries us from the Great Smoky Mountains to the Berlin Wall, from the Salem Witch Trials to Watergate, from Michelangelo to Houdini. Brimming with busted myths, gripping true stories, and peculiar particulars about a plethora of people, places, and events, this captivating compendium is guaranteed to delight information lovers everywhere as it feeds our insatiable appetite to know everything!

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Who dug those canals on Mars?
What was the biblical star of Bethlehem?
Were the pyramids built by extraterrestrials?

From the ancients who charted the heavens to Star Trek, The X-files, and Apollo 13, outer space has intrigued people through the ages. Yet most of us look up at the night sky and feel totally in the dark when it comes to the basic facts about the universe.

Kenneth C. Davis steps into that void with a lively and readable guide to the discoveries, theories, and real people who have shed light on the mysteries and wonders of the cosmos. Discover why Einstein was such a genius, the truth behind a blue moon or two, the amazing secrets of Stonehenge, and even how one great astronomer lost his nose.

With the fun question-and -answer format that has appealed to the millions of readers of his bestselling Don't Know Much About® series, you'll be taking off on an exciting armchair exploration of the solar system, the Milky Way, and beyond.

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Kenneth C. Davis, author of the phenomenal New York Times bestseller Don't Know Much About History, presents a collection of extraordinary stories, each detailing an overlooked episode that shaped the nation's destiny and character. Davis's dramatic narratives set the record straight, busting myths and bringing to light little-known but fascinating facts from a time when the nation's fate hung in the balance.

Spanning a period from the Spanish arrival in America to George Washington's inauguration in 1789, America's Hidden History details these episodes, among others:

• The story of the first real Pilgrims in America, who were wine-making French Huguenots, not dour English Separatists
• The coming-of-age story of Queen Isabella, who suggested that Columbus pack the moving mess hall of pigs that may have spread disease to many Native Americans
• The long, bloody relationship between the Pilgrims and Indians that runs counter to the idyllic scene of the Thanksgiving feast
• The little-known story of George Washington as a headstrong young soldier who committed a war crime, signed a confession, and started a war!

Full of color, intrigue, and human interest, America's Hidden History is an iconoclastic look at America's past, connecting some of the dots between history and today's headlines, proving why Davis is truly America's Teacher.

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Kenneth C. Davis, author of the phenomenal New York Times bestseller Don't Know Much About History, presents a collection of extraordinary stories, each detailing an overlooked episode that shaped the nation's destiny and character. Davis's dramatic narratives set the record straight, busting myths and bringing to light little-known but fascinating facts from a time when the nation's fate hung in the balance.

Spanning a period from the Spanish arrival in America to George Washington's inauguration in 1789, America's Hidden History is an iconoclastic look at America's past, connecting some of the dots between history and today's headlines, and proving why Davis is truly America's teacher.

Find out:

• Which Pilgrims arrived in Florida fifty years before the Mayflower sailed.
• What Supreme Court Justice went to prison.
• What traitor is honored with a statue for his bravery.
• Which fighting woman in colonial New England scalped her Indian captors.

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A new, completely revised, expanded and updated edition of the million-selling New York Times bestseller that launched the entire Don’t Know Much About® series.

When Don't Know Much About® History first appeared, it created a sensation. With humor, great stories, and a trademark conversational style, the book brought Americans a fresh new take on history. Davis proved Americans don't hate history–they just hate the dull version they were force-fed in school.

In his irreverent and popular question-and-answer style, Davis now returns with a completely revised edition that brings history right up to the moment–covering such topics as the end of the Cold War, Clinton's impeachment, the bizarre election of 2000, and the events that led to September 11.

Incorporation new research and discoveries, Davis also updates and expands on such long-standing American controversies as the Hiss trial, and he includes an expanded "civics-lesson" that examines some of America's hottest social and political issues, such as the death penalty and school prayer.

For history buffs and history-phobes alike, Davis proves once more why People magazine said that listening to him "is like returning to the classroom of the best teacher you ever had."...

Kenneth C. Davis, author of the phenomenal New York Times bestseller Don't Know Much About History, presents a collection of extraordinary stories, each detailing an overlooked episode that shaped the nation's destiny and character. Davis's dramatic narratives set the record straight, busting myths and bringing to light little-known but fascinating facts from a time when the nation's fate hung in the balance.

Spanning a period from the Spanish arrival in America to George Washington's inauguration in 1789, America's Hidden History details these episodes, among others:

• The story of the first real Pilgrims in America, who were wine-making French Huguenots, not dour English Separatists
• The coming-of-age story of Queen Isabella, who suggested that Columbus pack the moving mess hall of pigs that may have spread disease to many Native Americans
• The long, bloody relationship between the Pilgrims and Indians that runs counter to the idyllic scene of the Thanksgiving feast
• The little-known story of George Washington as a headstrong young soldier who committed a war crime, signed a confession, and started a war!

Full of color, intrigue, and human interest, America's Hidden History is an iconoclastic look at America's past, connecting some of the dots between history and today's headlines, proving why Davis is truly America's Teacher.

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Which president was also a movie star?

What happened five days after the Union won the Civil War?

What food did Americans think was poisonous until Thomas Jefferson ate some?

Hail to the chief! Here's your chance to learn all about the presidents' important political achievements, their nicknames, hobbies -- even what kind of foods they ate. Best-selling author Kenneth C. Davis packs fun facts and cool quotes into his signature question-and-answer format. Who knows? After you learn so much about the presidents, maybe you will want to run for office someday, too!

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• If Earth is round, why don't people on the other side of the world fall off? (see page 26)
• Is Mars red because it's embarrassed? (see page 49)
• If black holes are invisible, how do we know they're there? (see page 86)

Using the popular style that has won millions of readers, best-selling author Kenneth C. Davis blasts off for the stars! With an entertaining question-and-answer format, amusing anecdotes, and fact-filled sidebars, he sets his sights on the mysteries of space.

Humorous illustrations, along with NASA photographs, add fun and excitement to this fascinating and comprehensive book. Davis takes you back to the time when the Babylonians first charted the stars -- over three thousand years ago! You'll uncover amazing facts about the planets and stars, read how people were once convinced that Earth was the center of the universe, and discover how the experience of moonwalking astronauts may someday lead us to become pioneers on other planets.

This book is the perfect companion to Don't Know Much About® The Universe -- and all the other books in the New York Times best-selling Don't Know Much About® series.

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Thirty-four children on the Mayflower
Three days of Thanksgiving feasting
And hundreds of facts about the hardworking Pilgrims

Pilgrims in Plymouth: True or False Quiz

1. The Mayflower was a huge ship—nearly as large as the Titanic—with a bowling alley and a swimming pool!
2. Squanto, an Indian who helped the Pilgrims, spoke English.
3. Pilgrim farmers buried fish in the ground to help their corn grow better.
4. The Pilgrims called their harvest feast Thanksgiving.

Thanksgiving today is a time for families to say grace and gobble turkey. But why did the Pilgrims start this tradition? And who were these people anyway? In this latest outstanding entry in the Don't Know Much About^® series by renowned author Kenneth C. Davis, you can discover all you ever wanted to know about the Pilgrims.

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From Homer to Harry Potter, from Chaucer to Charlotte's Web, a compelling book of quizzes on history's most influential literary works and writers

• Did a whale named "Mocha Dick" inspire Melville's masterpiece?
• Who was the first poet to speak at a presidential inauguration?
• Which French-speaking high school football star shook up the literary world?

Do you freeze when someone mentions Faulkner? When the conversation turns to the Odyssey, do you want to take a hike? Have no fear. For years, Kenneth C. Davis's New York Times bestselling Don't Know Much About^® books have enlightened and enthralled us with a winning blend of fascinating facts and wonderfully irreverent fun. Now he sets his sights on our literary IQ in Don't Know Much About^® Literature. With this rich treasure trove of knowledge and intriguing information about the world's great books and authors, Kenneth Davis and his daughter, Jenny, demystify Dracula, capture Kafka, and help you brush up on your BrontË in the inimitable and endlessly entertaining Don't Know Much About^® style.

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From Homer to Harry Potter, from Chaucer to Charlotte's Web, a compelling book of quizzes on history's most influential literary works and writers

• Did a whale named "Mocha Dick" inspire Melville's masterpiece?
• Who was the first poet to speak at a presidential inauguration?
• Which French-speaking high school football star shook up the literary world?

Do you freeze when someone mentions Faulkner? When the conversation turns to the Odyssey, do you want to take a hike? Have no fear. For years, Kenneth C. Davis's New York Times bestselling Don't Know Much About^® books have enlightened and enthralled us with a winning blend of fascinating facts and wonderfully irreverent fun. Now he sets his sights on our literary IQ in Don't Know Much About^® Literature. With this rich treasure trove of knowledge and intriguing information about the world's great books and authors, Kenneth Davis and his daughter, Jenny, demystify Dracula, capture Kafka, and help you brush up on your BrontË in the inimitable and endlessly entertaining Don't Know Much About^® style.

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• Do sleeping volcanoes snore? (see page 12)
• Is the Dead Sea dead? (see page 21)
• How icy is Iceland? (see page 78)

Join best-selling author Kenneth C. Davis on an entertaining trek across the globe as he answers some big questions about the world in the amusing style that has won millions of readers.

With fascinating anecdotes about the world's most unusual places and notable quotes from world travelers throughout history, Davis leads you to the longest river, coldest desert, tallest waterfall, most powerful volcanic eruption, and much more. Humorous illustrations and amazing stories make the "boring" facts of geography come to life as you read about Marco Polo's adventures in China and discover that people in Latin America speak Spanish and Portuguese -- not Latin at all!

Kenneth C. Davis brings the verve of his popular best-seller Don't Know Much About® Geography to a new audience. He makes it fun to learn more about this incredible planet we call home.

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Nine planets
-- More than seventy moons --
And hundreds of stellar facts about the
Solar System!

True or False:
1. Venus is the coolest planet in our solar system.
2. Halley's comet returns every seventy-six years.
3. The universe is 15 to 20 billion years old.

Blast Off and discover the secrets of outer space! Have you ever wondered why our galaxy is called "the Milky Way," or if you could really catch a shooting star? Here's your chance to find out without ever leaving Earth. Best-selling author Kenneth C. Davis packs fascinating facts and riddles into his signature question-and-answer format. He makes exploring the solar system an out-of-this-world experience!

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Was Columbus the first European in the Americas?

What sport became more popular after the Civil War?

Were the Little Rock Nine a rock-and-roll band?

As best-selling author Kenneth C. Davis knows, history can be fun, fascinating, and memorable. When his don't know much about® history was published in 1990, it was a sensation. The book delivered a fresh take on history with its wit and unusual detail. Davis now does for young people what his earlier book did for adults. In his trademark question-and-answer style -- peppered with surprising facts, historic reproductions, and Matt Faulkner's lively illustrations -- Davis introduces our ancestors who settled the East and expanded the West, as well as those who had been living here all along. His sure touch brings the drama and excitement of the American story vividly to life.

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Thirteen stripes-
Fifty stars-

And hundreds of AMAZING facts about the U.S.A.!

Can you guess the names of the ten states below?

1. I have the highest waterfalls in North America.
2. I am the smallest state.
3. I am the largest state.
4. I have produced the most presidents of the United States.
5. I was the first to become a state.
6. I was the last to become a state.
7. I have the "Gateway to America."
8. I have the most kids under age ten.
9. I have the most tornadoes.
10. I am home to America's most popular vacation spot. See page 6 for answers....

Who killed the dead sea?...Where was the garden of Eden?...What's so bad about the badlands?

The author of the critically acclaimed national bestseller Don't Know Much About History now takes us on a fascinating, breathtaking and hilarious grand tour of the planet Earth -- opening our eyes and imaginations to a wide, wild, and wonderful world we never knew....

For years, Kenneth C. Davis has enlightened and enthralled us, opening our minds and tickling our fancies with his wonderfully irreverent, fun, and factual Don't Know Much About^® books. He has carried readers on wild and edifying rides through history, mythology, geography, the Bible, the Civil War, even across the universe. Now, following on the heels of his triumphant New York Times bestseller Don't Know Much About^® Anything, comes Don't Know Much About^® Anything Else, his latest one-stop potpourri of intriguing information. Chock-full of delightful historical snippets and fascinating people, remarkable milestones and boneheaded blunders, and eye-opening, brain-boggling facts about simply anything and everything in the world, here is the ideal companion for those long car rides, plane flights, quality family hours, or relaxing downtime.

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Did George Washington really chop down the cherry tree?

How was James Madison a father if he didn't have any children?

Where in the White House did William Howard Taft get stuck?

Hail to the chief! The commander in chief is the leader of our nation—the president of the United States. Here's your chance to learn about the presidents' inaugurations and important political achievements, as well as their nicknames, hobbies—and even what kind of foods they did (and did not) eat. Discover how life in the White House has changed, and the diverse ways the First Ladies helped America.

Bestselling author Kenneth C. Davis packs fun facts and cool quotes into his signature question-and-answer format. Detailed timelines make it easy to follow the major landmarks in American history. Presidential portraits and humorous illustrations make the design very inviting.

Who knows? After you learn so much about the presidents, maybe you'll want to run for office someday, too!

...

A new, completely revised, expanded and updated edition of the million-selling New York Times bestseller that launched the entire Don't Know Much About® series

When Don't Know Much About® History first appeared thirteen years ago, it created a sensation. With humor, wit, great stories, and a trademark conversational style, the book brought Americans a fresh new take on history. Shattering myths and vividly bringing the past to life, it spent thirty-five consecutive weeks on the New York Times bestseller list. Davis proved that Americans don't hate history -- they just hate the dull textbook version they were force-fed in school. The book became an instant classic, an "anti -textbook" that has sold more than 1.3 million copies.

In his irreverent and popular question-and- answer style, Davis now returns with a completely revised edition that brings history right up to the moment -- covering such topics as the end of the Cold War, Clinton's impeachment, the bizarre election of 2000, and the events that led to September 11.

Incorporating new research and discoveries, Davis also updates and expands on such long-standing American controversies as the Jefferson-Hemings affair, the Alger Hiss trial, and the Rosenberg spy case. And he includes an expanded "civics lesson" that examines some of America's hottest social and political issues, such as the death penalty, gun control, and school prayer.

For history buffs and history-phobes alike, longtime fans who need a refresher course, and for a new generation of Americans who are still in the dark about America's past, Davis proves once more why People magazine said, "Reading him is like returning to the classroom of the best teacher you ever had."

...

Whether it's the adventures of Greek gods and goddesses or Norse trickster tales, we all love to hear a good story. Kenneth C. Davis gives readers a taste of the diverse myths that live on in the cultures and religions around the world today. In his trademark question-and-answer style, peppered with entertaining sidebars and quotes, he also shows how almost every civilization's mythology shares common themes. A wealth of photographs and art reproductions, along with clever black-and-white illustrations by Sergio Ruzzier, helps convey mythology's lasting vitality. This is the perfect young companion to Don't Know Much About® Mythology -- and other titles in Davis's best-selling Don't Know Much About® series.

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Did George Washington really chop down the cherry tree?

How was James Madison a father if he didn't have any children?

Where in the White House did William Howard Taft get stuck?

Hail to the chief! The commander in chief is the leader of our nation—the president of the United States. Here's your chance to learn about the presidents' inaugurations and important political achievements, as well as their nicknames, hobbies—and even what kind of foods they did (and did not) eat. Discover how life in the White House has changed, and the diverse ways the First Ladies helped America.

Bestselling author Kenneth C. Davis packs fun facts and cool quotes into his signature question-and-answer format. Detailed timelines make it easy to follow the major landmarks in American history. Presidential portraits and humorous illustrations make the design very inviting.

Who knows? After you learn so much about the presidents, maybe you'll want to run for office someday, too!

...

• Did George Washington really chop down the cherry tree?
• How was James Madison a father if he didn't have any children?
• Where in the White House did William Howard Taft get stuck?

HAIL TO THE CHIEF! The commander in chief is the leader of our nation the president of the United States. Here's your chance to learn about the presidents' inaugurations and important political achievements, as well as their nicknames, hobbies and even what kind of foods they did (and did not) eat. Discover how life in the White House has changed, and the diverse ways the First Ladies helped America.

Best-selling author Kenneth C. Davis packs fan facts and coot quotes into his signature question-and-answer format. Detailed timelines make it easy to follow the major landmarks in American history. Presidential portraits and humorous illustrations make the design very inviting.

Who knows? After you learn so much about the presidents, maybe you'll want to run for office someday, too!

...

• If Earth is round, why don't people on the other side of the world fall off? (see page 26)
• Is Mars red because it's embarrassed? (see page 49)
• If black holes are invisible, how do we know they're there? (see page 86)

Using the popular style that has won millions of readers, best-selling author Kenneth C. Davis blasts off for the stars! With an entertaining question-and-answer format, amusing anecdotes, and fact-filled sidebars, he sets his sights on the mysteries of space.

Humorous illustrations, along with NASA photographs, add fun and excitement to this fascinating and comprehensive book. Davis takes you back to the time when the Babylonians first charted the stars -- over three thousand years ago! You'll uncover amazing facts about the planets and stars, read how people were once convinced that Earth was the center of the universe, and discover how the experience of moonwalking astronauts may someday lead us to become pioneers on other planets.

This book is the perfect companion to Don't Know Much About® The Universe -- and all the other books in the New York Times best-selling Don't Know Much About® series.

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