This book crosses the bounds between textbook, and very beautiful general interest history. With over fifty wonderful illustrations, this book is a great companion for anyone interested in clothing worn during certain periods of American history, clothing design, costuming, stagecraft, or any of the dramatic arts and industrial designs. While it's primary emphasis is on American clothing from the very beginnings of the country, and the social, economic, technological, necessary changes in clothing design, it also makes a great general reference for anyone interested in American clothing, and, makes a great looking decorative piece. The book gives the reader the opportunity to survey the history of American dress in brief form. It's main concern, is to help people everywhere to understand clothing design in relationship to the social forces which constantly mold American life and culture. Factors ranging from geography to purpose, to technology, on to world events and needs govern the type of clothing we need to wear at any given time. In our rapidly changing world it is imperative that our people have a sound understanding of American history. Educators for some time have recognized the need for broadening the students' learning in this field of knowledge. Today, schools stress the importance of the American heritage. Such an approach opens the door for discovery and exploration into many facets of life. It makes possible an appreciation for the social and economic forces behind historic facts. Too often political and military events are over-emphasized while students fail to grasp the significance of social and economic events. This book will have served its purpose if the reader can come to recognize the development of American dress as an important part of the American heritage and can in some small degree appreciate its inter-relatedness with many social and economic forces which contribute to its fulfillment. (Frances Howell, 1965)