Making it in America

"Hopeful immigrants have come to America for four centuries, trying to make a better life for their families. Making It in America: A Sourcebook on Eminent Ethnic Americans relates the stories of 400 first- and second-generation Americans who have uplifted our quality of life. The book celebrates multicultural success throughout U.S. history; the nationally renowned are found right alongside the not-so-famous who improved the lives of those in their own communities." "The individuals profiled in this volume were selected by 93 experts and represent 90 ethnic groups. They have excelled in art, literature, politics, religion, science, and sports. A comprehensive introduction by volume editor Elliott R. Barkan, "Achieving Eminence in America's Culture of Success," outlines the criteria for inclusion. Each fully referenced entry suggests further reading and many feature web sites. Helpful indexes offer access to the entries by ethnicity and by occupation. Making It in America is essential reading not only for scholars of ethnic studies but for anyone interested in the character of the American dream."--Jacket.