Who Was First? by Russell Freedman

Who Was First? by Russell Freedman

Many generations of American schoolchildren were taught that Columbus discovered America, and a holiday reminds us every October. But historical investigation in recent years has shown us otherwise. There is evidence that adventurers, explorers, traders, and nomads from various parts of the globe set foot on American soil long before 1492. And expeditions that landed in the Americas reported people already living there--indicating that America had been "discovered" before.
Russell Freedman brings his legendary skills as researcher and storyteller to this fresh and intriguing look at the American past. Colorful legends and first-person accounts are woven into the riveting narrative, which also illuminates the way historians and mapmakers have gathered, evaluated, and recorded information throughout the ages.

Russell Freedman (1929-2018) revolutionized nonfiction for children with his incisive narration, thorough research, thoughtful photography, and in-depth knowledge of his subject. He was well-known for his engrossing biographies and superb descriptions of American history. His many awards include the Newbery Medal, three Newbery Honor Medals, the Laura Ingalls Wilder Award, the May Hill Arbuthnot Honor Lecture Award, and a National Humanities Medal, to name a few. Freedom Walkers, Lincoln: A Photobiography, Because They Marched, The Wright Brothers: How They Created The Aircraft, and Vietnam: A History of the War are among his major publications.