The Handy Civil War Answer Book


Book Description

From the biggest events and battles to the lesser-known warriors and women, a captivating, concise, and convenient guide to America’s defining conflict, its origins, key battles, people, events, and aftermath. The nation’s highest-casualty, bloodiest-war is still discussed, studied, acted out, and politically relevant. From the complex, turbulent and difficult events leading to the war, through the first shots fired at Fort Sumter, the military strategies, battles, and people, and from Lee’s surrender at Appomattox to the Southern reconstruction and modern aftermath, The Handy Civil War Answer Book answers more than 900 questions, from the most widely asked to the more obscure, such as ... How did the Mexican War influence Americans of the 1850s? What was Robert E. Lee’s connection to George Washington? What did people mean when they said Lincoln had the style of a buffoon and the “brain of a giant”? What is nullification? What is secession? How closely are they linked? What was so important about the Homestead Act? How did what happened at Harpers Ferry contribute to what would become the Civil War? What all-black regiment famously led the charge at Battery Wagner? Was there any precedent for the Siege of Vicksburg? Would North and South have been reconciled if Lincoln had not been assassinated? What became of Generals Grant and Lee after the war? How do Americans continue to commemorate the Civil War? Blending historical review with a little surprising trivia into an engaging question-and-answer format, The Handy Civil War Answer Book is perfect for browsing and is ideal for the serious military or history buff, students, teachers, and anyone interested in a better understanding of our nation's past—and present. Photos, battlefield maps, and a chronology of major events contribute to the understanding of the War between the States in this tome is richly illustrated. Its helpful bibliography and extensive index add to its usefulness.




The Handy Armed Forces Answer Book


Book Description

The story of the United States military is the story of the country itself. Both have grown and changed over time. Learn about the unique histories, traditions, weapons, leaders, stats, and fun facts of the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, Air Force, and Space Force, and their roles within the military in this fun and fascinating guide! From the few hundred soldiers in its ranks when it was first established, to the over one million service members today, the U.S. military has grown in power and size over its 250-year history. Its organization and branches have changed to adapt to new technologies and national needs. The Handy Armed Forces Answer Book: Your Guide to the Whats and Whys of the U.S. Military looks at each branch of the U.S. military. It answers more than 500 of the most intriguing questions, including … How is the U.S. military organized? How do the branches work together? When did the Army Air Corps become the U.S. Army Air Force? What is the selection process like for Special Forces? Who was the Continental Army’s first Commander in Chief? How does the military rank structure function? How does somebody become an Air Force officer? What was the “Brown Water Navy”? What is the motto of the Coast Guard? How many bases does the military have? What is the Marine Corps Hymn? Did any Coast Guard vessels serve in combat? What type of aircraft is Air Force One? Who said “Retreat? Hell! We just got here!” Who were the Buffalo Soldiers? What are the Blue Angels? What is the most challenging USAF plane to fly? What is the origin of the Coast Guard “racing stripe”? Does the Space Force have any operational bases? How did a mutiny help establish the United States Naval Academy? What is the longest-serving personal weapon used by the American soldier? What is the difference between a UAV and a drone? What attack submarines does the Navy deploy? Who defends the United States against cyberattacks and other digital threats? The Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard, and Space Force are uniquely American, each in their own way. Learn what makes each branch special in The Handy Armed Forces Answer Book! With more than 140 photos and graphics, this fascinating to me is richly illustrated. Its helpful bibliography and extensive index add to its usefulness.




The Handy World War II Answer Book


Book Description

The biggest and deadliest war. Over 50 countries involved. More than 100 million people mobilized. A death toll between 50 to 85 million—half of which were innocent civilians. Six bloody years. Countless atrocities and savageries. If you’re interested in the story and legacy of World War II, then this history book is for you! From the Pearl Harbor attack and the D-Day invasion to the Holocaust and the Manhattan Project, World War II has had a lasting impact on the world. Larger-than-life heroes and villains were minted: Hitler, MacArthur, Stalin, and Churchill, to name a few. The ballistic missile, atomic bomb, radar, and other inventions were developed that came to define modern life. The impact of World War II cannot be underestimated. The Handy World War II Answer Book looks at the Blitzkrieg, Hiroshima, concentration camps, and the rest of the war’s history. It answers 550 of the most intriguing questions about the war, including … Why did Italy and Germany become allies? What was special about the Commando Fighting Knife? What were the secrets of Station X? Who were the Desert Rats? Did the Allies know that the Holocaust was happening? When was the first Enigma machine captured — and by whom? What led to the Battle of Midway? How was the fate of Stalingrad decided? Who were the Flying Tigers? Did Hitler really sleep through the D-Day invasion? What was the biggest naval battle of World War II? Why was Iwo Jima so difficult for the Americans to capture? How did two of the Nuremberg prisoners evade justice? What happened to Emperor Hirohito? Fought all over the world, there were battles and operations, warships and warplanes, guns and bombs, attacks and sieges, soldiers and leaders. There was despair and victory, triumph and tragedy, struggle and sacrifice. Learn all about the conflict in The Handy World War II Answer Book! With more than 120 photos and graphics, this fascinating tome is richly illustrated. Its helpful bibliography and extensive index add to its usefulness.




The Handy Psychology Answer Book


Book Description

Bridges the gap between today's entertainment-focused “pop psychology” on television and the dry academic research that is published in journals. A primer on human behavior and psychology. The Handy Psychology Answer Book helps answer why humans do what we do through accurate scientific data presented in a lively, accessible, and engaging way. It covers the fundamentals and explains the psychology behind how people deal with money, sex, morality, family, children, aging, addiction, work, and other everyday issues. It takes a journey through the history and science of psychology and showing how psychology affects us all. Fully revised to reflect the latest scientific research—such as the current DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, published by the American Psychiatric Association); the latest neurobiological theories; and the changing face of marriage—this timely reference has expanded to include information sections on the biology and evolution of emotions; technology and adolescence; bisexuality; optimism; autism; as well as a full section on the law, eyewitness testimony and police shootings. Featuring more than 1,500 answers to questions concerning how the human mind and the science of psychology really work, this fascinating guide delivers the real facts of modern psychology, along with fun factoids and thought-provoking insights into what motivates human behavior. This intriguing exploration provides insights into the current science of the mind by answering questions such as: How have other cultures addressed psychological issues? Why was Freud so focused on sex? How do twin studies help illuminate the role of genetics? How can I maintain a healthy brain? Why do some people hear voices that aren’t really there? Why do children see monsters in the closet at night? How have recent changes in technology affected adolescent development? Why does time seem to speed up as we age? Is it normal to argue during marriage? Does religion make people happier? How do we reduce social prejudice? How has morality changed over the course of history? What are the personality traits of people who succeed in their professions? Why do so many politicians get trapped in scandals? Does genetics play a role in voting behavior? Which therapies are best for which kinds of problems? How might the stress of police work affect decision-making in high stress situations? The Handy Psychology Answer Book also includes a helpful glossary of terms, complete reference sources for topics discussed, and an index. With a wide range of information suitable for everyone, this is the ideal source for anyone looking to get a better understanding of psychology. It provides clear answers on the history, basic science and latest research, and psychology behind everyday situations and at different stages in life.




The Handy Answer Book for Kids (and Parents)


Book Description

Kids ask the darndest things . . . and here are the answers—all in one helpful book! Anyone who has ever been a kid, raised a kid, or spent any time with kids knows that asking questions is a critical part of being a kid. Kids have curious minds, and they come up with some very interesting questions. Why do dogs bark? Why is the sky blue? Why do people have to grow old? Questions like these are how kids find out about the world, and these questions deserve answers. But the truth is, adults don’t always know the answers. The Handy Answer Book for Kids (and Parents) comes to the rescue! Written with a child's imagination in mind, this easy-to-understand book is a launching pad for curious young minds and a life raft for parents at wits end. It addresses nearly 800 queries with enough depth and detail to both satisfy the curiosity of persistent young inquisitors and provide parents with a secure sense of a job well done. It'll equip every parent for those difficult, absurd, or sometimes funny questions from their kids, such as … Why do people speak different languages? Why do I cry? How can fish breathe underwater? Can people who die see and talk with living people after they are gone? Why do women in some countries wear veils? How did my life begin? How does a vacuum cleaner pick up dirt? How does my body know to wake up when morning comes? With numerous photos and illustrations, this tome is richly illustrated, and its helpful bibliography and extensive index add to its usefulness. A launching pad for inquisitive young minds and a life raft for parents who are at their wits’ end, The Handy Answer Book for Kids (and Parents) is a book that every parent needs, and every kid will covet!




The Handy Military History Answer Book


Book Description

Heroism and sacrifice. Brutality and folly. Great leaders, great villains, pivotal moments, and events. Take a captivating, concise, and convenient look at how the world, the United States, and the lives we lead today have been changed by war and the military! Military history is a fascinating, complex, and often contradictory subject. War and fighting between tribes, clans, groups, and countries has been with us forever. Wars cause political, social, and technological upheavals. From early Greeks and Romans to the great conquering militaries of the past, continuing on through the civil wars and world wars that shaped the boundaries of today’s nations, and to the modern weapons, technologies, guerrilla warfare, and terrorism currently reported in the nightly news, The Handy Military History Answer Book looks at the who, the what, the why, and the how of conflicts throughout history. It answers over 1,100 questions, from the most widely asked to the more obscure, such as: Who cast the first stone (of human history)? Is there anything to the story of Ancient Troy? Could Alexander the Great have conquered the early Roman Republic? How many men, and auxiliary fighters, were there in a Roman legion? Which precious metal did the Vikings prefer above all others? Do we even have his name—Genghis Khan—right? Where did Richard the Lion-Heart get his nickname? How long did it take to learn how to use the longbow? Was Napoleon really not French? When did George Washington have to alter all his plans: and how did he go about making the change? What signals did Paul Revere watch for on the evening of April 18, 1775? How many people died at the Siege of Fort Sumter? What was the worst day of the Civil War, in the Far West? Where was the world's first submarine deployed? When were balloons first deployed in warfare? Where did the name "Uncle Sam" come from? What did Rasputin have to say about the approach of the First World War? Why on earth did Hitler code-name his invasion of Russia for a German emperor who drowned? How close did Hitler come to victory at Moscow in 1941? What ten days decided the outcome of World War II? What was so special about the B-24? When did the Cold War commence? What role will technology like the Internet play in future warfare? How significant—to the United States—is the rise in China’s military power? The weapons, leaders, soldiers, battles, tactics, strategies, blunders, technologies, and outcomes are all examined in The Handy Military History Answer Book. It investigates everything from the smallest miscalculations and maneuvers to the biggest invasions and battles, as well as the cutting-edge technologies and firepower that led to victories and helped change the world! This powerful primer on the military also includes a helpful bibliography and an extensive index, adding to its usefulness.




The Handy History Answer Book


Book Description

Our country and the world is changing fast, and a knowledge of history helps us understand the hows, whats, and whys of modern civilization. Fully revised and updated, this new edition of The Handy History Answer Book answers over 1,000 how-what-why questions. A concise guide to all things historical, this feast of facts and compelling stories recounts the revolutionary ideas, acts, and inventions that have changed the world from the Stone Age through the 21st century. Open the pages of this historical guide and get ready for an exciting journey. From Neanderthal Man to sports, from the Trojan War to the Arab Spring, from the Hippocratic Oath to the Internet, this is the perfect companion for history buffs of any age and a resource for learning—and brushing up on—the events, terms, and history makers. A concise guide to all things historical, this feast of facts and compelling stories recounts the revolutionary ideas, acts, and inventions that have changed the world. Beginning with a section on historical eras, this popular reference source tracks history and organizes information in 13 specific subject sections, ranging from politics and war to science and religion. It tackles exploration and settlement, technological advances, legal fireworks, financial and business events, social movements, natural and man-made disasters, medicine and disease, and art and culture. From the Stone Age to sports, from the Trojan War to the Arab Spring, and from the Hippocratic Oath to the internet, this is the perfect companion for history buffs of any age.




The Handy California Answer Book


Book Description

Hollywood. Silicon Valley. The cities, beaches and redwoods. An enlightening look at the Sunshine State, people, history, and culture! California is the country's most populous state. The home of the entertainment industry and silicon valley. It's known for its beaches, its redwood forests, and as the “land of fruit and nuts.” Its people, industries, politicians, climate, and allure captivates the world and draws millions of visitors each year. Exploring the state’s fascinating history, people, myths, culture, and trivia, The Handy California Answer Book takes an in-depth look look at this fascinating, quirky, and diverse state. Learn about the original Indigenous peoples, the Spanish explorers, the independence from Spain, the secession from Mexico, the Gold Rush, the building of the Los Angeles Aqueducts, the earthquakes, the water shortages, and much, much more. Tour landmarks from Disney Land to the Golden Gate Bridge to Yosemite National Park. Learn about famous sons and daughters, including Ronald Reagan, Jeff Bridges, Tony Hawk, and John Steinbeck. Sports (college and professional) are illuminated. The government, parks, and cultural institutions are all packed into this comprehensive guide to the state of California. Find answers to more than 1,100 questions, including: How did “Eureka!” become the state motto? Why is a grizzly bear on the state flag when no grizzlies exist in California? Was the coast of California ever attacked by pirates? How did Russians come to colonize part of what is now California? How did the completion of the Transcontinental Railroad drastically transform the state? Does the ghost of Cary Grant still roam his favorite home in Palm Springs? Is the “Big One” earthquake inevitable, and are Californians prepared for it? How did Silicon Valley become a center for the high tech industry? Can you eat the snails in your backyard in California? Why do so many Californians want to divide the state into smaller states? What is a “Valley Girl” fer shur fer shur? Why did the Brooklyn Dodgers move to Los Angeles? Did anyone ever escape the island prison on Alcatraz? When you order your fast-food burger at In & Out “animal style,” what will land on your plate? A convenient place to go to look up the basic—and fun—facts about California, its history and culture, The Handy California Answer Book illustrates the unique character of the state through a combination of facts, stats, and stories, as well as the unusual and quirky. This informative book also includes a helpful bibliography and an extensive index, adding to its usefulness.




The Handy Boston Answer Book


Book Description

Boston. Bahston. A wicked good look at the city of Boston, it’s people, history, culture, and surrounding neighborhoods. Whether it's called Beantown, The Olde Towne, Titletown, The Cradle of Liberty, The Athens of America, The Puritan City, The City on a Hill, or any of its other obscure or oft-repeated nicknames, Boston has a long and varied history. Its universities and hospitals lead the nation, and its sports teams, politicians, and colloquialisms continue to captivate. Exploring this city’s fascinating history, people, myths, culture, and trivia, The Handy Boston Answer Book takes an in-depth look at one of America's oldest major cities. Learn about the city’s founding by Puritan settlers, the Boston Massacre, the Great Fire, the opening of the T, the busing desegregation strife, the Big Dig, and much, much more. Tour landmarks from Faneuil Hall to Fenway Park to the United States' first public school, Boston Latin School, and important institutions such as Harvard and Massachusetts General Hospital. Sports (and the local sports fanatics) are illuminated (and explained). Popular neighborhoods, ethnic enclaves, and the surrounding suburbs are canvassed. The government, notable sons and daughters, parks, and cultural institutions are all packed into this comprehensive guide to the city of Boston. Find answers to 1,200 questions, including: What was the Boston revolt of 1689? Who dramatized Paul Revere's Midnight Ride? How did the Embargo Act of 1807 affect Boston? How did Protestant and Yankee Boston become the multi-ethnic metropolis of today? When did Boston's Great Fire occur? How much of the city's land was reclaimed by filling in marshes, mud flats, and gaps between wharves along the waterfront? What cities and towns comprise the “Greater Boston” region? How many college students reside in Boston? Why is the Boston Marathon always run on the third Monday of April? Who ran the Boston Marathon the most times? Were the baseball players always called the Red Sox? Why did Boston get the "Athens of America" nickname? What's “The T”? What's “The Pike”? Who designed Boston’s “Emerald Necklace”? Who was Boston's longest-serving mayor? Are “Tonics” and “Whoopie Pies” available at most “Spas”? What do the colored lights on top of the old Hancock building say about the weather? What do Samuel Adams, James Taylor, Benjamin Franklin, and Taylor Schilling have in common? A convenient place to go to look up the basic—and fun—facts about Boston, its history and culture, The Handy Boston Answer Book illustrates the unique character of the city through a combination of facts, stats, and stories, as well as the unusual and quirky. This informative book also includes a helpful bibliography and an extensive index, adding to its usefulness.




The Handy Hockey Answer Book


Book Description

Stan Fischler, hockey journalist since 1954 and Lester Patrick Award-winner "for contributions to hockey in the United States," covers the sport’s history, its origins, rules, players, and more! Stick handlers without helmets rushing goaltenders without masks on rinks lacking sideboards gives way to a faster game with bigger players and overtime shootouts. The National Hockey League goes from a Canadian and regional sport to one that is watched by more fans throughout North America than ever. Hockey may have changed, but its essence and appeal remain. The Handy Hockey Answer Book, written by hockey historian, broadcaster, author, and self-professed Hockey Maven, Stan Fischler, brings the game to life through exciting game action, vital stats, players, rules, and more. It traces the early spread of hockey, Lord Stanley's involvement, and the birth of the cup, then explains the rules, the equipment, strategies, and positioning, before following the ups and downs of the National Hockey League and its teams and players. From the traditions, all-time cup- and award-winners and record-breakers to the modern game, The Handy Hockey Answer Book answers more than 800 questions on the game, greats, goals, and growing popularity of hockey, including ... Where does hockey come from? What was the Stanley Cup first called? Where did the name “Patrick Division” come from and why are the Patrick brothers important? When was six-man hockey invented and who was its creator? What is a “Zamboni” and after whom was it named? What was the Gretzky Rule? How did the hockey puck develop its present shape? Which is the oldest current NHL team? Why is the term “Original Six” a misnomer? Which Hall of Famer trained on champagne? Who holds the Montreal Canadien’s franchise record for career goals? Who centered Gordie Howe and Ted Lindsey on Detroit’s legendary “Production Line.” Which team was the first to come back from being down 3-0 in a series. Who played right wing on a line with Phil Esposito for the Bruins in the late 60s and 70s? Who was the first European player to lead the league in scoring? What NHL team won and lost the Stanley Cup on the same day? Which hockey player was supposed to be “kidnapped” as part of a scheme to increase attendance at New York Rangers games? Did an NHL club ever play all its “home” games of the Stanley Cup finals on the road? Starting with a Middle Ages game resembling ice golf to the NHL's Original Six to the modern high school, college, and professional games, this is a clear, concise, and illuminating primer to the game of hockey! A glossary of terms and a bibliography for further reading round out this helpful primer on the sport.