Synopses & Reviews
Galloping Across America shows how Mustangs, Arabians, Palominos, Morgans, and other kinds of horses played a central role in the development of the United States as a nation. From transportation within cities -- the omnibus, fire wagons, delivery of goods -- to mail delivery from coast to coast to tilling soil and herding cattle, Martin Sandler shows how essential the horse was for the survival of four million citizens stretched across 800,000 square miles. As roads improved, stagecoaches became popular for crossing the country. Covered wagons delivered pioneers into the western regions for homesteading. And Native American culture changed significantly as wealth and social standing within tribes began to be measured by the number of horses each man owned.
Galloping Across America is a fascinating look at the horse-powered development of America up through the rodeos and mounted police of today.
Filled with the spirit of adventure, competition, and restlessness central to the American character, the Transportation in America series reveals how the horse, trolley, ship, railroad, automobile, and airplane transformed the country. Each volume is richly illustrated with photographs, paintings, drawings, posters, timetables, sheet music covers, and original documents -- many of which have never been published before -- and includes fascinating sidebars on the colorful characters and technology behind the transport.
Review
"...the many well-captioned photographs, documents, and prints from various periods are attractive and informative illustrations for the text." -- Booklist
"From American Indians and conquistadors to urban police forces, Americans have long used horses as a means to travel, transport goods, and above all, prosper. Galloping across the USA: Horses in American Life illustrates the various uses of and dependencies on horses throughout North American history." --NEA Today
"The various modes of transportation are an interesting lens through which students can view culture, economics, politicals, and life choices." --History Matters
"This book could be used as a companion to a study of US history, or for a focus project on horses. Either way, it will be sure to intrigue students." -- Library Materials Guide
"Middle school students and teachers will find this book a unique way to study the history of the United States, and will find it pleasurable reading. Recommended." --Library Media Connection
"This book could be used as a companion to a study of US history, or for a focus project on horses. Either way, it will be sure to intrigue students." -- Christian Schools International
Table of Contents
Conquistadores and prairie warriors -- The horse pulls the load -- Settling the West -- Racing the clock -- The horse helps create a legend -- Omnibuses and horsecars-- The horse delivers the goods.