This excellent reference puts the answers to thousands of questions right at a student's fingertips. Culled from the resources of the world's greatest libraries, and based on the questions that young students most frequently ask reference librarians, this remarkable volume is organized into 24 chapters, covering a wide range of topics. 200 illustrations, charts, and diagrams. 4-color atlas.

Covering a wide range of knowledge, The New York Public Library African American Desk Reference is a magnificent resource for home, family, and business, and an essential addition to your personal reference library. "Indispensable for those interested in the African American experience. We have no better source for quick and reliable information." --Cornel West, Alphonse Fletcher University Professor, Harvard University "As much about African American culture as one could possibly gain from one volume is now available in this highly readable, easily accessible, genuinely informative desk reference." --Johnetta B. Cole, PhD, President Emerita, Spelman College; Presidential Distinguished Professor, Emory University In over 5,000 fascinating information capsules, this landmark reference captures the most vital people, places, organizations, movements, and creative works of a people, and provides a practical resource for everyday living. In its nineteen chapters, you’ll find: * Timelines of African American History * Political and Civil Rights Leaders * African Contributions to the Making of the Americas * Holidays and Celebrations * Museums and Historical Sites * Religion and Spirituality * Health Tips and Recipes * Business Contacts and Professional Associations * Demographics and Population * Major Writers, Artists, and Musicians * Musical Forms * Sports * and more

Here is the comprehensive yet quick-answer guide to one of the most popular topics in home reference: American history. With succinct, clearly written topical overviews, timelines, and capsule biographies, accompanied by sidebars and illustrations, this single volume incorporates all major events and contributions from the earliest inhabitants of North America to the present age. 90 illustrations. 10 maps.