The Heidlers (Old Hickory's War: Andrew Jackson and the Quest for Empire, Stackpole, 1996) have edited an excellent reference work on the major event of the early national period, the War of 1812. Arranged in alphabetical order, their encyclopedia contains more than 500 entries by some 70 authors, including leading authorities on the war such as Donald Hickey. Although all the military engagements are covered, this thorough and comprehensive book also treats such topics as African Americans, the Federalist Party, and naval medicine. Also included are nearly two dozen pages of maps, a broad introductory overview of the war, and an up-to-date bibliography that includes such 1997 titles as Paul Nagel's biography of John Quincy Adams (LJ 10/1/97). This handsomely produced and easy-to-use book is fully indexed, with a special section of important documents. Most libraries will want to have it on hand.?Stephen G. Weisner, Springfield Technical Community Coll., MA
Copyright 1998 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to the Library Binding edition.