The United States is constantly evolving in all ways, including how individuals, groups, and institutions define what it means to be an American. This essential guidebook leads readers through this development, from the early days of European invasion, exploration, and settlement to the creation of the Constitution, a living document that continues to change and to be read from new perspectives, to the issues and debates of today. It considers how key historical events, including the establishment of democracy, major wars and conflicts, and social upheavals such as Reconstruction, the Great Depression, the civil rights movement, and the advent of new and ever-changing technology, have shaped and reshaped American values and ideals.