The Brief Edition of "A People and a Nation" preserves the text's approach to American history as a story of all American people. Known for a number of strengths, including its well-respected author team and engaging narrative, the book emphasizes social history, giving particular attention to race and racial identity. Like its full-length counterpart, the Brief Eighth Edition focuses on stories of everyday people, cultural diversity, work, and popular culture. A new design makes for easier reading and note-taking. Events up to and including the election of 2008 are updated and included, and new chapter has been written on 'The Contested West'. This title is available in the following split options: "A People and a Nation, Brief Eighth Edition Complete" (Chapters 1-33), ISBN: 0547175582; "Volume I: To 1877" (Chapters 1-16), ISBN: 0547175590; and, "Volume II: Since 1865" (Chapters 16-33), ISBN: 0547175604.