The view of American history presented here is a somewhat simplistic and chauvinistic one, but appropriate to its focus: the origins and uses of the American flag. Sections deal with the invention of this national symbol, its wartime and diplomatic uses, its appearance in exploration of Earth and space, and its role in everyday American life. The book ends with a too-brief appendix on flag etiquette. Sedeen, a longtime National Geographic Society writer and editor, presents a well-illustrated and effectively written story; she imbues American history with an unbeat and optimistic flavor that may appeal to conservative readers. Revisionists will appreciate Sedeen's debunking of the Betsy Ross legend. This title will probably interest schools and public libraries seeking books about the flag rather than academic libraries.-- Stanley Planton, Ohio Univ.
Chillicothe Lib.
Copyright 1993 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.
From Booklist
Sedeen considers the power of the American flag, once described by National Geographic as the sacred object that keeps the American soldier from being "bestialized by slaughter." Legends, such as the tale of Betsy Ross, are sorted from facts in Sedeen's congenial narrative, which stretches from Francis Scott Key's poetic declarations to recent controversies over flag desecration. Glorious color photos enhance the text. An addendum on flag etiquette explains proper display, folding, and disposal. Denise Perry Donavin --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.
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