American Passages places a unique emphasis on time as the defining nature of history--how events lead to other events, actions, changes, and often-unexpected outcomes. Rather than grouping facets of historical change into themes or topics, the authors offer students a complete, compelling narrative with balanced coverage of political, economic, social, cultural, military, religious, and intellectual history. The Brief Edition offers a more concise narrative, yet retains the features, maps, and photos of the larger version.