The presidents

Cited in Books for College Libraries, 3d ed. and Guide to Reference Books, this standard reference, accessible to high school students and above, presents the life and political careers of all the American presidents. Arranged chronologically, the 20-plus page essays written by scholars, historians, and journalists are preceded by a general introduction on the nature of the presidency and followed by a chapter on the role of the first ladies from Martha Washington to Laura Bush. New information includes the second term of the Clinton administration and the first year of George W. Bush's tenure. The appendices include a general bibliography of the presidency; a table of biographical, political and historical data; and a description of the executive office of the president. Includes 100 b & w illustrations and two eight-page color inserts. Edited by Graff (emeritus history, Columbia U.). Annotation copyrighted by Book News, Inc., Portland, OR