Bøger af Doug West

Born of humble beginnings, Ronald Reagan came into the world as the son of working class parents in Illinois. During his youth, he wasn't a particularly gifted student, but he did graduate from college. A Hollywood actor and union leader turned politician, he served as the thirty-third governor of California during the tumultuous period from 1967 and 1975. Though his hard work, determination, and a bit of good luck, Ronald Reagan became the fortieth president of the United States, in office between 1981 and 1989. For his work as the President of the United States and for having realigned the country toward conservative policies, Ronald Reagan has remained an iconic influence among Republicans, who often invoke his beliefs. He transformed the American presidency with his bold strategies and inspired policies. His political agenda, including lower taxes, a conservative economic stance, and expansion of the military, redefined politics in the United States. To this day, the name Ronald Reagan is spoken with a form of reverence in circles of conservative-minded thinkers.This short book covers the life of Ronald Reagan from his early years growing up in Illinois, his rise to power through the political ranks to become the President of the United States, and the years after his term in the land's highest office.

The son of a Boston Congregationalist deacon, Samuel Adams was educated at Harvard and took over his father's malt house business and failed. Adams admitted that he wasn't good at business, revolutionary agitator was more his game. He was one of the first American patriots to call for independence from England. Thomas Jefferson wrote of Adams "truly the man of the revolution." Adams loved to write and made a fiery newspaper editor, producing an onslaught of articles denouncing the British control of the colonies and calling for a new independent nation. A very religious man, he believed that God had intervened for the cause of the Americans in their fight for liberty. Adams played a key role in rallying the colonist against the British after the Boston Massacre and helped plan the Boston Tea Party - two incidents that helped spark the conflict between the American colonists and their mother country. He was ever the man of action, playing a pivotal role in the events that led up to the bloody confrontation between the British red-coats and the colonial militia at the Battle of Lexington and Concord. Adams spent most of his adult life in service to his country, from the early days of the Continental Congress to helping build a new nation with his work on the Massachusetts Constitution and then becoming governor of the state. "Samuel Adams: A Short Biography" reveals the life and times of a true American revolutionary.

Bill Clinton knew at an early age that he wanted to be in politics. Over time, his dream would become reality as he moved up the political ranks to become the 42nd President of the United States. During his college years, starting at Georgetown, then at Oxford as a Rhodes scholar, and completing his law degree at Yale, Bill Clinton proved to be a quick study. While at Yale, he met his future wife, Hillary Rodham, who would become his closest adviser. As a member of the Democratic Party, he began his political career in Arkansas, where he was elected as attorney general and later governor. Though Clinton was a brilliant politician with several noteworthy accomplishments during his two terms as president, he had bitter enemies who would stop at nothing to destroy him-which they nearly did. He did bring the Democratic party back into the White House for two successive terms, a feat which hadn't been accomplished since Franklin Roosevelt guided the nation through the Great Depression and much of World War II. His political life didn't end with the presidency, as he was closely involved in his wife's two failed bids for the highest office in the land.Bill Clinton is a man of great contrasts and contradictions, a man whose presidency was disgraced by impeachment, but who remains one of the most popular presidents of the modern era. Read this short biography and see his journey unfold.

The discovery of the vast lands to the west by Christopher Columbus opened the flood gates of European adventurers and explorers that sought to subdue the North American continent. Those hungry for adventure and a new life came primarily from England, France, Spain, and the Netherlands. In the western and southern bounds of North America the Spanish established their presence, while the middle of the continent was controlled by the French, and the eastern seaboard was colonized mainly by the Dutch and English. One by one, from the settlement at Jamestown, Virginia, established in 1607, to the last of the 13 British colonies to form, Georgia, in 1732, Europeans built homes, farms, and churches to form enduring communities. Some came seeking religious freedom, some came for the promise of cheap land and the hope of a new life, while others came in chains from Africa to work the fields. Regardless of their status or reason for coming, free or enslaved, rich or poor, pious or profane, everyone would become the seeds of a fledgling nation that would spring from the 13 British colonies to become the United States of America.The book "The Formation of the 13 Colonies in America" gives a concise look at the formation of the original 13 British colonies in America. To illustrate the story there are numerous pictures of the people, places, and events that are part of this historic undertaking. In addition, the book contains a list of reference books for further reading and a timeline of the formation of the 13 colonies that puts the events of that period in sequence. 30-Minute Book SeriesThis is the 48th book in the 30-Minute Book Series. Books in this series are fast-paced, accurate, and cover the story in as much detail as a short book possibly can. Most people complete each book in less than an hour, which makes the books in the series a perfect companion for your lunch hour, a school project, or a little down time.

Alexander Hamilton, born in the British West Indies, was an outsider from the very beginning. His illegitimate birth drove him to prove his worthiness to others throughout his life. His quest for honor was one of the defining characteristics that colored his decisions. Hamilton was a small man with a large ambition, and this would drive him to greatness and create some powerful enemies in his wake.Alexander Hamilton's life was not without its share of tragedy. Before his fifteenth birthday, his father had abandoned the family and his mother had died of yellow fever. Luckily for young Alexander, a group of benefactors realized his potential and paid to have him sent to the British colony, America, for an education.After serving as General Washington's aide-de-camp during the Revolutionary War, Hamilton returned to his law practice and soon entered politics. In 1787, he would help draft the Constitution of the United States and then write a series of critical essays, called the Federalist Papers, which were key to ratification of the Constitution.Hamilton's position on the role of government was for a strong Federal government. President Washington nominated Hamilton to become the first Secretary of the Treasury.During his tenure as Secretary of the Treasury, he set the nation on a sound fiscal footing, established the first national bank, and a mint to produce coinage. Hamilton was a master of setting up institutions within the government and making bitter enemies of powerful men, such as John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, and Aaron Burr.One of Hamilton's political rivalries would turn very personal as Aaron Burr, the sitting Vice President of the United States, was seeking retaliation for Hamilton's disparaging remarks. Hamilton's honor would not let him decline Burr's challenge to a duel. The outcome of the duel was fatal for Alexander Hamilton - dead at age forty-nine, leaving behind a wife, seven living children, and a legacy that would survive the centuries. Spend some time with this distinguished American and buy the book, Alexander Hamilton - A Short Biography.

Thomas Jefferson is known by most as the third president of the United States, but his legacy extends much further than that. Born to a wealthy plantation owner, Thomas was the third of nine children. When he was just fourteen, his father died, leaving him half his land, slaves, and wealth. These circumstances allowed Thomas to attend college at the age of sixteen, and later on, to study under one of the top lawyers of the time. His political history is one of great triumph and struggle. Jefferson first practiced law and served in the government as a member of the House of Burgesses, later serving as a member of the Continental Congress, where he wrote the Declaration of Independence. Jefferson left Congress in 1776 and returned to Virginia to serve in the legislature, and then as Governor of Virginia for two years. He took a brief sabbatical until 1784, when he replaced Benjamin Franklin as minister to France. In 1790, Jefferson became Secretary of State under George Washington and later served as Vice President to John Adams. Jefferson won the presidency in a heated election in 1800. His first term resulted in some notable achievements, including the purchase of the Louisiana Territory in 1803, and then his support of the Lewis and Clark expedition. In his second term, he faced difficulties in the domestic and foreign fronts and was most remembered for his effort to remain neutral in the midst of the conflict between France and Britain. In 1809, President Jefferson was succeeded by James Madison. While he lived out his final seventeen years at his Virginia plantation, Monticello, Jefferson sold his collection of books to the government. Not only did he lay the foundation for the Library of Congress, but he was also the founder of the University of Virginia. Thomas Jefferson passed away on July 4, 1826, just hours before his friend John Adams died on the same date. It was the fiftieth anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, and Jefferson was eighty-three years old.Spend some time with this distinguished American and buy the book Thomas Jefferson - A Short Biography. 30 Minute Book SeriesWelcome to the thirteenth book in the 30-Minute Book Series. Each book in the series is fast-paced, well-written, and accurate, covering the story in as much detail as a short book allows. In less than an hour, you can read or listen to the full book. It is a perfect companion for your lunch hour, or perhaps a nice distraction on your train ride home from work.About the AuthorDoug West is a retired engineer, small business owner, and an experienced non-fiction writer with several books to his credit. His writing interests are general, with special expertise in science, biographies, and "How-To" topics. Doug has a Ph.D. in General Engineering from Oklahoma State University.

Mike Pence is an American politician who has been serving as the fiftieth governor of Indiana since January 2013. He is currently the vice president-elect of the United States and will take office in January 2017, entering history as the forty-eighth vice president of the United States. In 2008, Esquire magazine included Pence on its list of the ten best members of the Congress, after Pence had positioned himself among conservatives as an ideologue with strong principles. He was considered a viable Republican candidate for the presidential elections of 2008 and 2012. In September 2010, Pence was voted the top choice for president in a straw poll run by the Values Voter Summit.Mike Pence is considered the most conservative vice president-elect of the past forty years, and his name has often garnered nationwide attention due to several controversies. This short book covers the life of Mike Pence from his early years growing up in Indiana and chronicles his rise to power through the political ranks to become the vice president-elect of the United States.

A fierce personality with an iron will, Andrew Jackson was an important statesman who left a historic mark on the expansion and consolidation of the United States. Known among both his friends and his enemies as "Old Hickory," after the hardwood tree, he rose to fame during the War of 1812, where his victories revealed the tenacity and courage that would later transform him into one of the most influential and controversial American presidents.Andrew Jackson was a self-made man who was born on the frontier and grew up to become one of Tennessee's first and most important political figures, before serving as the seventh president of the United States between 1829 and 1837. His rise to national prominence was hastened when he led to victory a rag-tag group of militia, Indians, locals, and pirates against a much larger British force during the War of 1812 at the Battle of New Orleans. The event prompted Jackson's immediate ascent to power and transformed him into a national hero. From the Petticoat affair to the nullification crisis, Jackson's ability to handle the most divisive issues allowed him to transcend any scandal due to the unwavering support of his ardent political partisans. Andrew Jackson exerted such a tremendous influence on American politics that historians often refer to his presidency as "The Age of Jackson."Although he was widely esteemed by Americans of his time, Jackson's reputation has dwindled since the rise of the civil rights movement when his anti-abolitionist views and his leading role in Indian dispossession after the signing of the Indian Removal Act in 1830 have been heavily criticized. With his independent spirit and his persistent hold on democratic principles and values, he set the country on a path that led to a stronger and more efficient democracy.This readable book "Andrew Jackson: A Short History", is a compact biography that surveys in concise terms the life and times of this most influential American president.30-Minute Book SeriesWelcome to the 31th book in the 30-Minute Book Series. Books in this series are fast-paced, accurate, and cover the story in as much detail as a short book possibly can. Most people complete each book in less than an hour, which makes the books in the series a perfect companion for your lunch hour or a little down time.

John Quincy Adams was taught at an early age by his parents to be a public servant, and indeed he was, serving as the secretary to the American envoy to Russia at age fourteen, and literally dying on the floor of the House of Representatives well into his eighties. As the eldest son of the prominent politician and U.S. president, John Adams, he grew up in a fervent political climate, accompanying his father in diplomatic missions and forging his own path in diplomacy and public administration. Besides serving for years as a diplomat, minister, and ambassador to foreign countries, Adams had a successful career on the national scene as both a U.S. senator and congressman. He is known for his systematic and consistent fight against slavery, but also for his ability to negotiate favorable treaties with the great powers of the world, such as Britain, Russia, and Prussia. Adams would go on to serve as the sixth president of the United States and finish his career in the House of Representatives. The thirty-fifth president, John F. Kennedy, wrote of his fellow Bostonian that he "held more important offices and participated in more important events than anyone in the history of our nation."Read about this great leader from early America by purchasing the book "John Quincy Adams: A Short Biography."30-Minute Book SeriesWelcome to the 30th book in the 30-Minute Book Series. Books in this series are fast-paced, accurate, and cover the story in as much detail as a short book possibly can. Most people complete each book in less than an hour, which makes the books in the series a perfect companion for your lunch hour or a little down time.About the AuthorDoug West is a retired engineer and an experienced non-fiction writer with several books to his credit. His writing interests are general, with special expertise in history, science, biographies, and "How To" topics. Doug has a Ph.D. in General Engineering from Oklahoma State University.

Beginning with a skirmish involving inexperienced British officer George Washington, the Iroquois chief, and the ill-fated French emissary in the backwoods of Pennsylvania, a chain of events culminated in what would effectively become the First World War.The French and Indian War, as it is known in North America, was part of a larger conflict called the "Seven Years' War," which involved nations on three continents. The French and Indian War was fought in the forests, plains, and forts of the North American frontier. Initially, the French army, supported by North American Indian tribes, was more successful than the British Army, who lacked experience in guerilla fighting tactics.Massive British spending bolstered their forces in North America and ultimately won them a victory over the French.The conflict that occurred between 1755 and 1763, and that led to the downfall of the French Empire in North America, ultimately overturned the balance of power on two continents, eroded Indian nations' ability to gain independence from European rule, and lit the fuse of the American Revolution.

Most of us, young or old, have dreams of grand things, but it is the rare souls that sees their dreams standing before them, taller than the Statue of Liberty, with enough raw power to launch men to the moon. Wernher von Braun was such a dreamer. From a young age, he knew that rockets and space travel would be the driving force in his life; however, Adolf Hitler and the Nazi regime had different plans for this young man, as he would lead Germany's development of the V-2 rocket, which at that time was one of the most advanced weapons known to man. After World War II had ravaged most of Europe, von Braun and a team of over one hundred of the best technical minds Germany had would be allowed to move to America to advance the science and technology of rocketry. Von Braun led teams for the military and NASA which launched America's first space probe, put the first American in space, and ultimately put a man on the moon. His checkered past with the Third Reich would make him a villain in the eyes of some, while his outstanding scientific and the engineering talent would make him a genius of world renown in the eyes of others. Venture into the life of times of the remarkable man and see his perilous journey to become a legend in the field of rocketry and space travel.

When Texas was annexed by the United States in 1845 Mexico's foreign minister in Washington, D.C. angrily left the country and returned to Mexico. Mexico had warned the United States that if Texas became a U.S. state it would be cause for war. By April of the next year a shooting skirmish had broken out along the contested border between Mexico and the state of Texas. -- General Zachary Taylor, who was in charge of the U.S. forces along the border alerted President James K. Polk with the message "Hostilities may now be considered as commenced." President Polk wasted no time, alerting Congress in protest that the Mexican soldiers had "...shed American blood upon American soil." --Congress quickly brought the United States to a war footing. Both nations were ill prepared for war. --Mexico with a much larger army seemingly had the advantage, however, the Americans were better trained, had state-of-the-art artillery, and possessed a navy that could move troops quickly as well as shell a coastal city into submission.--For nearly two years the Americans pushed deeper into Mexico, winning every major battle. -- General Scott, or "old fuss and feathers" as he was known, was a master tactician and with a much smaller army was able to defeat the Mexican soldiers led by General Santa Anna. --It was not until February 1848 when the treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo was signed that the war came to an official end. The Americans gained much from the treaty, including the modern-day states of California, New Mexico, Arizona, Nevada, Utah, and parts of Colorado and Wyoming. For this vast territory the U.S. compensated Mexico with a little over $18 million. Though this war is seldom mentioned today, the Mexican-American War had a profound and lasting impact on both nations. The book "The Mexican-American War: A Short History" gives a concise look at the factors leading up to the war, the details of the battles, and reveals the impact the war had on both countries. To illustrate the story there are over a dozen pictures of the people, places, and events that were part of the war. In addition, a list of reference books for further reading is included. A timeline of the war puts the events in sequence and there is a section that contains short biographical sketches of the key individuals in the book. 30-Minute Book SeriesThis is the 41st book in the 30-Minute Book Series. Books in this series are fast-paced, accurate, and cover the story in as much detail as a short book possibly can. Most people complete each book in less than an hour, which makes the books in the series a perfect companion for your lunch hour or a little down time. About the AuthorDoug West is a retired engineer and an experienced non-fiction writer with several books to his credit. His writing interests are general, with special expertise in history, science, and biographies. Doug has a Ph.D. in General Engineering from Oklahoma State University.

Few people don't have an opinion of President Donald Trump; either you love him or hate him. No matter your political stripes, President Trump is a force to be reckoned with. Growing up in a wealthy New York family, Donald Trump took over his father's real estate business and turning it into a world wide real estate empire. Wanting more recognition and to build the Trump brand, in 2004 Trump began staring in The Apprentice reality television show. Here he was able to mentor young entrepreneurs with the promise of an executive position in the Trump empire while at the same time show-casing his many properties.In 2015, Donald Trump decided to take the plunge and run for the highest office in the land, the presidency of the United States. After his announcement, few political pundits gave Trump any chance of winning the election, most thought it was a stunt to boost the sagging rating of his show The Apprentice. With support from his family and millions of Americans, Trump won a hard fought campaign against the former Senator Hillary Clinton to become the 45th President of the United States.Once in office, Donald Trump has been anything but a passive president. Quickly taking on the sticky issues of immigration, tax reform, and health care. His policy initiatives have met with some success and some failure. His unorthodox style as president is a big change from former president Obama. Take the time to read this short biography of Donald Trump and see his tumultuous rise to power.

Zachary Taylor or "Old Rough and Ready" as his men called him, came up through the ranks in the U.S. army with the culmination of his career occurring at the Battle of Buena Vista during the Mexican-American War. His military exploits brought him national notoriety and propelled him to the office of the president in the election of 1848. A bit of an enigma, he was a southern slaveholder who vehemently opposed the expansion of slavery into the new western territories that had been won in the war with Mexico. The political arena was a new domain for Taylor, having never held a political office or even voted in a national election. Just sixteen-months into his presidency he was suddenly stricken with a severe gastro-intestinal ailment that killed him - some questioned if he had not been poisoned. Though Zachary Taylor will never rank as one of the great presidents like Washington or Lincoln, he will always be remembered as a strong nationalist who worked to preserve the Union. The book "Zachary Taylor: A Short Biography" gives a concise look at the life and times of the former president of the United States. To illustrate the story there are numerous pictures of the people, places, and events that were part of this man's fascinating life. In addition the book contains: a list of reference books for further reading, a timeline of President Taylor that puts the events of his life and that period of history in sequence, and a section that contains short biographical sketches of the key individuals in the book.

Dr. Robert Goddard was the first scientist who not only realized the potential for rockets for space flight but also contributed directly in making them a reality. His rare talent in both creative science and practical engineering placed Goddard well above the European rocket pioneers. The dedicated research and experimentation into the development of rockets by the modest man went largely unrecognized in the Untied States until the dawn of the "space age." Richly deserved honor now comes to the name of Robert H. Goddard and his amazing story.

There are many theories about what caused the Great Depression, and the truth is that there is no simple answer. Rather, a perfect storm of events came together and changed the lives of millions of people. One of the first signs of this dark period was the stock market crash in October 1929. In the aftermath, the country fell into the Great Depression, the longest and most significant economic depression since the Civil War. Through most of the 1920s, the United States economy was growing, and the stock market had reached new highs. People were making money in the stock market and having a grand time, so much so that few noticed the dark clouds forming on the horizon. By the end of the decade, industrial production had begun to decline, while unemployment was steadily rising. Stock market prices were plummeting from their peak in September 1929, and sales reached a crescendo in late October. On October 29, over sixteen million shares were traded in just one day. Billions of dollars were lost, with thousands of investors wiped out, and stock tickers were running hours behind because they were simply unequipped to manage this unprecedented amount of trading. The crash was not the only cause of the Great Depression, but it was certainly a symptom of a larger set of problems. Earlier in 1929, Herbert Hoover won the presidency under a wealth and prosperity platform. He made several unsuccessful attempts to prevent the economy from weakening during his administration. Despite his best efforts, banks continued to fail, and more Americans entered the ranks of unemployment. No one understood the extent of this economic downturn. But the election of 1932 brought Democrat Franklin D. Roosevelt into the White House by a landslide. Roosevelt wasted no time, proposing extensive legislation called the New Deal to create new jobs, revitalize the banks, and give hope to the American people. Some of the New Deal programs were successful, while other fell short; but by the end of the 1930s, things had finally begun to improve. However, it would take the massive spending required during World War II for the economy to return to where it was a decade before. Read about this tumultuous period in American history by purchasing the book The Great Depression - A Short History. 30-Minute Book SeriesWelcome to the eleventh book in the 30-Minute Book Series. Books in this series are fast-paced, accurate, and cover the story in as much detail as a short book possibly can. You can complete each work in less than an hour, which makes our books a perfect companion for your lunch hour or your commute home from work.About the AuthorDoug West is a retired engineer, small business owner, and an experienced non-fiction writer with several books to his credit. His writing interests are general, with special expertise in science, biographies, and "How To" topics. Doug has a Ph.D. in General Engineering from Oklahoma State University

For a man that would be known the world over for his genius, Albert Einstein had a rather unimpressive childhood. -- It would not be until his mid-twenties that his insight into nature and its connection with mathematics became apparent. --Working as a Swiss patent clerk, he would squirrel away his research papers in his desk and work on them when no one was looking. --During his "miracle year" of 1905, Einstein would produce four papers that would revolutionize theoretical physics. One of the masterworks would later earn him a Nobel Prize and another paper covering his Special Theory of Relativity would upset the foundations of physics set forth by Sir Isaac Newton.-- Though Einstein's professional career lead to world renown, his personal life was often in shambles - a failed marriage, estrangement from his children, and his time wondering as a refugee. -- After the rise of the Nazi party in Germany, his Jewish ancestry forced him to flee to the United States with his second wife to find a new homeland.-- Einstein finished his brilliant career at the Institute for Advanced Study in Princeton working on his "theory of everything" or a unified field theory - with no success.This readable, compact biography surveys in concise terms the life and times of this towering figure. By the end of this short book, you will not only understand how the genius of Albert Einstein shaped our past, but how it continues to subtly influence the world in which we all live.

A "long-shot" or "underdog" would best describe the former governor of Tennessee, James Knox Polk, who had lost two reelection bids and now sought his party's vice-presidential nomination. Events unfolded rapidly at the Democratic convention in the warm summer of 1844. James Polk had hoped to be his party's choice as front runner Martin Van Buren's vice presidential nominee going into the fall general election. Seven ballots into the nomination process the convention was hopelessly deadlocked, then Polk's friends began spreading the word that "Young Hickory" was Andrew Jackson's choice and that he could bring harmony to the party. On the ninth ballot of the delegates vote, Polk became the presidential nominee of the party to run against the veteran Whig candidate Henry Clay. A third-party candidate would syphon off just enough votes from Clay to throw the general election to Polk.Polk was no stranger to Washington; having been a seven-term congressman and eventually holding the powerful position of Speaker of the House of Representatives. Polk was brought into the nation's highest office through a wave of expansionist fervor. Many believed it was the providence of God or "Manifest Destiny" that America should possess the land from "sea to shining sea," and James Polk was just the man to push this dream into reality.Polk would turn out to be one of the exceptional presidents of the nineteenth century. A hundred years later, President Harry Truman would extol Polk, writing, "James K. Polk [was] a great president. Said what he intended to do and did it." Polk did fulfill the desires of the country to expand. When he entered the office of the president, Missouri was the western border of the nation; upon leaving the office four short years later, the Pacific Ocean bordered the growing nation to the west. "James K. Polk: A Short Biography" crisply reveals the life and times of the eleventh president of the United States. 30-Minute Book SeriesThis is the 39th book in the 30-Minute Book Series. Books in this series are fast-paced, accurate, and cover the story in as much detail as a short book possibly can. Most people complete each book in less than an hour, which makes the books in the series a perfect companion for your lunch hour or a little down time. About the AuthorDoug West is a retired engineer and an experienced non-fiction writer with several books to his credit. His writing interests are general, with special expertise in history, science, biographies, and "How To" topics. Doug has a Ph.D. in General Engineering from Oklahoma State University.

John Tyler holds the distinction of being the first president to take office due to the death of a sitting president. Tyler was thrust into office on the death of President William Henry Harrison in 1841 after being vice president for only a month. He was at home in Richmond when he got word of Harrison's death. Immediately he rushed to Washington, D.C., to be embroiled in a Constitutional crisis over the secession of power.-- The Whig Political Party had chosen Tyler as Harrison's running mate in the election of 1840, primarily because he was from the very populous state of Virginia and it was hoped he could bring in the Southern vote.-- The Whigs were shocked when Tyler became president and didn't fall in line with the party. He vetoed much of their legislation, so they kicked him out of the party!-- After one term in office, he was relegated to political obscurity.--As the tensions grew between the North and South leading up to the Civil War, Tyler and his new wife, thirty years his junior, became outspoken advocates for slavery and Southern plantation life.-- Just before his death he was elected as a representative to the Confederate States of America and would be buried in a coffin draped with a Confederate flag.-To the Northerners, John Tyler was considered a traitor to the Union cause, making him one of the most controversial presidents in United States history."John Tyler: A Short Biography" reveals the life and times of the tenth president of the United States.30-Minute Book SeriesThis is the 38th book in the 30-Minute Book Series. Books in this series are fast-paced, accurate, and cover the story in as much detail as a short book possibly can. Most people complete each book in less than an hour, which makes the books in the series a perfect companion for your lunch hour or a little down time.About the AuthorDoug West is a retired engineer and an experienced non-fiction writer with several books to his credit. His writing interests are general, with special expertise in history, science, and biographies. Doug has a Ph.D. in General Engineering from Oklahoma State University.

The history of United States coinage is a story that parallels the rise of America. Starting from a humble beginning in a basement in Philadelphia in the first few years of the country, it grew to a large highly sophisticated system that produces millions of coins per year. Due to a lack of silver, the first silver coins produced by the Mint came from silverware contributed by George and Martha Washington. It wasn't until after the Civil War that coinage became widely used for all types of transactions. Until that time, barter and money substitutes, such as tokens, script, and foreign coins, were used as a mediums of exchange. During the 1830's, and then again during the Civil War, coins were in such short supply that merchants and private individuals began producing cent-sized coins, just to make change for daily transactions. In America, it was legal until 1857 to use foreign money in transactions. The Spanish dollars and their fractional parts, called "bits," were quite common during colonial times until the mid-1800s.President Theodore Roosevelt sparked a change in the coin designs fom a standardized institutional theme to more artistic and attractive designs. The President enlisted the help of one of the country's most prominent sculptors to create some of the most beautiful coins in the history of the country. Until recent times, the value of the silver and gold coins depended on their intrinsic metal value. This was a constant headache for the Mint, as the value of gold and silver would rise, and the coins would disappear from circulation to be melted and sold for their bullion value. It wasn't until 1964 that the Mint totally abandoned precious metals for the day-to-day coinage and changed the composition to what we see today as modern copper-nickel clad coinage.Come and take the journey into what seems so ubiquitous today and learn the fascinating history of these small metal objects in our pockets and purses.About the AuthorDoug West is a retired engineer, small business owner, and an experienced non-fiction writer with several books to his credit. His writing interests are general, with special expertise in science, biographies, numismatics, and "How to" topics. Doug has a Ph.D. in General Engineering from Oklahoma State University.

What are haunted places. Doug West uses a Biblical foundation to look at the spiritual violation that occurs in haunted places. Examples are covered.

Spurred by a deep religious conviction, a lust for gold and the riches of the Orient, the Genoise explorer Christopher Columbus set sail from Spain to find a trade route to China. In his first voyage starting in 1492 he found little gold and did not reach China. What he did find was lush islands filled with friendly natives and vast new lands to explore and conquer. The next three voyages would transform this world-class navigator and explorer into a failure as a colonial governor and administrator. The Spanish colonists that were planted into the New World proved to be brutal masters of the indigenous Indians, virtually eliminating entire tribes. Though Columbus's image has been tarnished by his harsh treatment of the native people, he was truly a man that changed the map of the world and the course of human history. This short biography tells the amazing story of the legendary man and his grand adventure of discovery.The book "Christopher Columbus and the Discovery of the Americas" gives a concise look at the voyages and discoveries of Christopher Columbus. To illustrate the story there are numerous pictures of the people, places, and events that were part of this historic adventure. In addition, the book contains: a list of reference books for further reading, a timeline of the explorer's epic journeys that puts the events and that period of history in sequence, and a section that contains short biographical sketches of the key individuals in the book. 30-Minute Book SeriesThis is the 47th book in the 30-Minute Book Series. Books in this series are fast-paced, accurate, and cover the story in as much detail as a short book possibly can. Most people complete each book in less than an hour, which makes the books in the series a perfect companion for your lunch hour, a school project, or a little down time. About the AuthorDoug West is a retired engineer and an experienced non-fiction writer with dozens of books to his credit. His writing interests are general, with special expertise in history, science, and biographies. Doug has a Ph.D. in General Engineering from Oklahoma State University.

Jimmy Carter's political career peaked in 1977 when he became the 39th president of the United States. During his time in the Oval Office, he was confronted with a battered economy, soaring oil prices, American hostages in Iran, and the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan. A Democrat and Baptist from rural Georgia, Carter served at the US Naval Academy as a naval officer and received several military awards, such as the American Campaign Medal, World War II Victory Medal, China Service Medal, and National Defense Service Medal. He was a very successful peanut farmer before engaging in politics and serving two terms as a Georgia State Senator and one as the Governor of Georgia. Though President Carter's term in the White House was not especially notable, his work after the end of his career in politics has been exceptional. After leaving the White House, Jimmy and his wife, Rosalynn Carter, have been very busy with humanitarian efforts. During Carter's post-presidential career, he has emerged as an important voice for international diplomacy and negotiation, remaking his image as a statesman for our time. In 2002, Carter received the Nobel Peace Prize for his significant involvement in humanitarian causes through his non-profit Carter Center. President Carter and his wife continue to remain active members of their community as they work on humanitarian projects.This short book covers the life of Jimmy Carter from his early years growing up in Georgia, his rise to power through the political ranks to become the President of the United States, and his years after his term in the land's highest office.

Benjamin Franklin was first and foremost a public servant, but he was also a prolific writer, humorist, musician, inventor, businessman, and scientist. He was always working to improve civic society. Among many other things, he organized the first volunteer fire department and established the first lending library in America. In the 18th century, he was celebrated as a scientist, inventor, and innovator who somehow emerged from the obscurity of his modest birth to prominence, which he achieved despite a lack of formal education. You've hear the story of Benjamin Franklin flying a kite in a thunderstorm storm to prove lightning was a form of electricity - the story is true and it turned out his discovery propelled him to the level of an international scientist. He was a simple American, but his scientific discoveries in regards to electricity surpassed the achievements of more prominent and established European scientists of his time. His work as a diplomat to France during the American Revolutionary War was key to the colonists breaking free from British control. He helped write the Declaration of Independence and the United States Constriction. It has been said that he was the only American President that wasn't accurately a President. How could one man accomplish so much in just one lifetime? Buy the book "Benjamin Franklin - A Short Biography" and find out! 30 Minute Book Series Welcome to the first book in the 30 Minute Book Series. Each book in the series is fast paced, well written, accurate, and covers the story in as much detail as a short book allows. In less than an hour, you can read or listen to the book; it is a perfect companion for a lunch hour or a nice distraction for a train ride home from work.About the AuthorDoug West is a retired engineer, small business owner, and an experienced non-fiction writer with several books to his credit. His writing interests are general, with special expertise in science, biographies, numismatics, and "How To" topics. Doug has a Ph.D. in General Engineering from Oklahoma State University.

Do you want to learn about William Penn but don't have the time or patience to read a thick book? Then this is the short and concise book for you! Some of the interesting accomplishments of William Penn covered in the book are: An early convert to the Society of Friends or Quaker religion. Wrote several books and pamphlets promoting his faith.One of the original proprietors of the colony of West Jersey.Was granted a large tract of land in North America from King Charles II of England.In 1681 established the proprietary colony of Pennsylvania in North America.Promoted the new colony of Pennsylvania in England and Europe, drawing thousands of colonists to the New World.Was an early advocate of religious freedom.Established friendly relationships and successful treaties with the Lenape Native America tribe.Wrote "Frame of Government" to establish a type of democratic government in the colony of Pennsylvania.And much more...The book "William Penn: Founder of Pennsylvania: A Short Biography" gives a crisp look at the life and times of William Penn. To illustrate the story of his life there are numerous pictures of the people, places, and events that were part of his life. In addition, the book contains: a list of reference books for further reading, a timeline of Penn's life, and a section that contains short biographical sketches of the key individuals in the book.Pick up your copy today by clicking the BUY button! 30-Minute Book SeriesThis is the 62nd book in the 30-Minute Book Series. Books in this series are fast-paced, accurate, and cover the story in as much detail as a short book possibly can. Most people complete each book in less than an hour, which makes the books in the series a perfect companion for your lunch hour, a school project, or a little down time.

The American Revolutionary War was an event that changed the path of nations. The birth of the United States of America signaled a deadly struggle that cost the lives of thousands of American and British soldiers.The conflict between the mother country, Britain, and the colonist was series of events over a decade that finally led to the first shots being fired at the battle of Lexington and Concord.This bitter war would drag on for years with battlegrounds scattered up and down the eastern seaboard of the now United States.* Men such as George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, and Benjamin Franklin would prove to be key individuals that helped turn the war into a victory over the most powerful military force in the world. The French were key allies in the war and helped to turn the tide in the favor of the beleaguered Continental Army.It would take more than eight long years from the first shot being fired to the final peace treaty. Buy the book "The American Revolutionary War - A Short History" and learn about the traumatic events that formed the most powerful and important nation in the history of the world.30 Minute Book SeriesWelcome to the fifth book in the 30 Minute Book Series. Each book in the series is fast paced, well written, accurate, and covers the story in as much detail as a short book allows. In less than an hour, you can read or listen to the book; it is a perfect companion for a lunch hour or a nice distraction for a train ride home from work. About the AuthorDoug West is a retired engineer, small business owner, and an experienced non-fiction writer with several books to his credit. His writing interests are general, with special expertise in science, biographies, numismatics, and "How To" topics. Doug has a Ph.D. in General Engineering from Oklahoma State University.

At first glance, John Forbes Nash Jr. seemed to have it all: a Ph.D. from Princeton, a beautiful wife, and a fantastic job teaching mathematics at MIT. He had no idea that at the age of thirty-one, his entire life would fall apart, and it would take decades of hospitalization before his brilliant self would reemerge from the hell of schizophrenia - not unlike a butterfly trapped too long in a cocoon. After a long bout of relative obscurity, mental illness, and poverty, Nash was ultimately awarded - seemingly out of the blue - the Nobel Prize in Economics. At some point during his illness, the world had forgotten about John Nash the man, but that didn't stop people from remembering all that he'd accomplished in his youth. His work has shaped many areas of industry and academia, and has helped solve many important problems. Ultimately, John Nash pushed past the constraints of his brilliance and madness and found redemption.

Maybe you have never heard of Cecilia Payne-Gaposchkin ; if not, now is your chance to find out about the interesting woman that had a huge impact on the world of science and advanced the cause of women. ** Her discovery of hydrogen as the most abundant element in the universe was a fundamental breakthrough. ** Early astronomer who combined the power of physics and chemistry in order to unlock the mysteries of the stars. ** After graduation from Cambridge University, Cecilia Payne-Gaposchkin came to America to study at Harvard College Observatory under Harlow Shapley. ** She would rise through the ranks at Harvard becoming the first female full professor at the prestigious school. ** At the peak of her career, she was one of the world's foremost experts on variable stars. A dedicated wife, mother, and world class scholar, Cecilia broke the glass ceiling in the academic world and opened the door for women to advance in many different fields. Spend some time with this distinguished astronomer and buy the book "The Astronomer Cecilia Payne-Gaposchkin - A Short Biography."30 Minute Book SeriesWelcome to the sixth book in the 30 Minute Book Series. Each book in the series is fast paced, well written, accurate, and covers the story in as much detail as a short book allows. In less than an hour, you can read or listen to the book; it is a perfect companion for a lunch hour or a nice distraction for a train ride home from work.About the AuthorDoug West is a retired engineer, small business owner, and an experienced non-fiction writer with several books to his credit. His writing interests are general, with special expertise in science, biographies, numismatics, and "How To" topics. Doug has a Ph.D. in General Engineering from Oklahoma State University.

The twenty-five-year old Charles A. Lindbergh climbed into his single-engine monoplane, Spirit of St. Louis, and took off for Paris determined to win the $25,000 Orteig Prize promised to the first pilot to fly nonstop between New York and Paris.For the next thirty-three hours, he navigated through storms across the perilous Atlantic Ocean, news of his attempt had circled the globe, making him an international celebrity by the time he reached Paris.He became a national hero, with a ticker-tape parade that drew millions, awarded every possible award from the Medal of Honor to Time's "Man of the Year", commemorated on a U.S. postage stamp within months, and celebrated as the embodiment of a modern American.Follow the story of this bold young man as he journeys into manhood and the controversies that would cloud the sterling "hero" image.

Margaret Thatcher was a British stateswoman and the first female Prime Minister of the United Kingdom. From 1975 to 1990, she was the Leader of the Conservative Party. She was elected Prime Minister three times and served for 11 years, longer than any other British prime minister of the 20th century. Her political views, based on loose economics and individual self-realization, along with her policies, were referred to as Thatcherism, which for decades remained an influential political concept in the United Kingdom. Thatcherism was also used to describe Thatcher's ethical principles and personal style, including such aspects as nationalism, individualism, or the refusal to compromise on the pursuit of certain political goals.This short book covers Margaret Thatcher's life in enough detail for the reader to learn about this amazing woman without having to read a large-volume biography.