Approaching the American history survey course in an innovative way, this mid-length text features a more expansive definition of political history that includes all forms of politics, not just electoral politics, while simultaneously incorporating cultural history. With the specific aim of expanding history beyond elite actors, The American Experiment emphasizes everyday work, family life, customs, and objects of cultural history to address its four themes: the role of government, American identity, the broad concept of culture, and America and the world. The Third Edition features an enhanced thematic approach that helps students understand America's development as an experiment in politics, culture, and identity, within a global context.