American Icons An Encyclopedia of the People Places 3 vols

What do Madonna, Mount Rushmore, suburbia, the banjo, Wal-Mart, antiperspirant, and Jimi Hendrix have in common? Whether we adore, ignore, or deplore them, they all exert important influences on the concepts and choices that form our changing lives. In many cases, these individuals, locations, and objects also shape how America is perceived by the global community. This A-Z collection of essays explores more than one hundred American people, places, and phenomena that have taken on iconic status in popular culture. The contributors to this unique three-volume set examine these icons through a diverse array of perspectives and fields of expertise. Ranging from the Alamo to Muhammad Ali, from John Wayne to the zip, this selection of American icons represents essential elements of global popular culture, including law, art, food, religion, and science. Featuring more than 100 illustrations, this work will serve as a unique resource for students of American history and culture.