From the writing of the Declaration of Independence to the invention of the hula hoop, Americans have been innovating for 250 years. Our ingenuity and can-do nature has led to everything from frozen food to the mass-produced automobile. In honor of the United States’ 250th anniversary, American Imagination celebrates America by looking at the history of our country not by historical events, but by the things we invented that made life easier, more enjoyable, and more efficient, and that changed the world.

Lavishly illustrated, each year in our nation’s history is highlighted by a single object that defines it, from toys and games to machines that put us into space, from contributions to pop culture that heavily influenced the zeitgeist to innovations in leisure and lifestyle and technological feats once thought impossible. Whether it’s pop culture, science, food, entertainment, sports, or technology, this collection has something for everyone. It is the ultimate celebration of the American spirit.

A CELEBRATION of the United States’ historic contributions to art, science, lifestyle, and entertainment.

KEEN INSIGHT: Learn the inspiring stories behind some of the most cherished and important pieces invented in the US.

FOR ALL AGES: Readers of all ages and backgrounds will find something inspiring in these pages, whether your interest is in aerospace, fashion, cookware, or gaming.

Jennifer Newens is an experienced publishing leader who has written for, edited, acquired, and represented everything from William Sonoma cookbooks to YA graphic novels. At different phases of her career, Jen has been an author, editor, and publisher, and has been developing book content for more than 25 years.