This hugely successful text provides students of American studies with the perfect background and introductory information on contemporary American life. Thoroughly revised, this fifth edition covers all the central dimensions of American society from geography and the environment, government and politics, to religion, education, media and the arts. "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 contains photos, case studies, questions and terms for discussion, and suggests websites for further research. With new illustrations and case studies, this edition of "American Civilization" also examines the 2008 election, US foreign policy activities, the impact of climate change, and the shifting economic situation.An invaluable online resource, the "American Civilization" companion website features a wealth of material including biographies of major historical and contemporary figures, links to key primary sources, worked answers to essay questions, and suggestions for classroom activities and discussions.