An examination of the varied paths of the American inter-city bus industry from its origins in the second decade of the 20th century to deregulation in 1982. This sector of transport has been much neglected by historians and this book seeks to uncover a range of useful and pertinent information to those who are interested in understanding entrepreneurial endeavours, patterns of mobility and consumer attitudes. It analyzes the development of the national industry, probes the growth of particular companies and investigates specific aspects of business behaviour. The work is presented as a series of focused essays which offer insights into such topics as regulation, marketing, gender patterns and intermodal competition. It draws on diverse archival materials, government surveys and findings, trade publications, interviews and photographs. A wide-ranging bibliographical essay offers a guide to available sources.

'... offers a serviceable introduction to the history of the US bus industry.' H-Net Reviews 'For over fifteen years, Margaret Walsh,... has traversed the United States in search of sources on the long-distance bus industry. This compilation of her previously published articles - with some new material - is a happy occasion for transportation, social, cultural, and business historians of modern America.' The Journal of American History 'In all respects this is a fine book.' Journal of economic History '... offers a very interesting account of the intercity bus industry in the US.' Choice '... a meticulously researched volume... adds greatly to our knowledge of a previously neglected area. It also makes a significant contribution to our understanding of economic and social change in modern America.' History '... essential study for students rounding out their knowledge of American transportation. The text is supported by a full bibliography... well illustrated...' Journal of American Studies '... an excellent introduction to the history of the American intercity bus industry, from its formative years at the beginning of the twentieth century up to deregulation in the early eighties... thoroughly researched... covers an overlooked, largely undocumented portion of American history... Walsh has succeeded in bringing to light, and making widely available, material that will be of interest to business historians and transportation historians alike. Furthermore, she has presented the material in a well-organized, accessible, and easy-to-read package.' Business History Review

Linda L. Berger is Family Found’n Professor of Law at University of Nevada Las Vegas, Boyd School of Law. She has helped develop the field of applied legal rhetoric and has published widely in this and related areas. Kathryn M. Stanchi is Professor of Law at Temple University Beasley School of Law. She is recognized as the leading scholar to bring persuasion science into the literature of legal persuasion. She has published and lectured extensively on this and related topics.