Historical Encyclopedia of American Business.
Wilson, Richard L. -- Library Journal, 7/6/2009 12:01:00 PM
3 vols. Salem. 2009. 1056p. illus. index. ISBN 978-1-58765-519-7. $364; Online: Salem History REF
Wilson (American Political Leaders) here leverages his talent with 140 contributors, constructing an impeccable reference source offering clear, concise, highly relevant, and precise information. Wilson’s strength is his ability to synthesize information into basic components that are easy to understand. Organized cleanly and clearly within a user-friendly framework, this three-volume set covers the full scope of American business history, from the earliest trade with the Native Americans to the most recent economic downturn. All the issues and forces that have shaped American business are called forth; specific events in history, agriculture, banking, and the various business sectors, as well as the activities of regulatory bodies, other organizations, and the law, are covered in plain English. The 477 A-to-Z entries range in length from 300 to 3000 words, with key entries identifying the topic, person, or organization with dates and significance. Coverage ranges from Alexander Graham Bell, J.P. Morgan, and Martha Stewart to the strike of the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters and the Arab oil embargo of 1973. Bottom Line Succinct yet comprehensive, this work is required reading on the subject. Highly recommended for both public and academic libraries.—Marianne E. Giltrud, Catholic Univ. of America Libs., Washington, DC
