The 1940's were a dynamic decade for the United States, defined by conflict, paradigm shifts, and a coming of age for America. Goldberg (history, Thomas Nelson Community College, Hampton, Virginia) provides an engaging narrative of the events of the 1940's along with fascinating portraits of the political and social leaders of the era. From the lowest economic doldrums of the Great Depression, to the involvement in World War II and the beginnings of the McCarthy era, this book brings the quintessential elements of the decade to the fore. A must read for those interested in American history. Annotation ©2012 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)