Examines the life and work of Samuel Griswold Goodrich who, writing under the name "Peter Parley," was one of the United States' most prolific geography textbook writers. Explains that Parley was among the nineteenth century's best known educational figures. Underscores Goodrich's profuse use of illustrations and personal writing style.…

Compares John Bull and Uncle Sam as iconographic symbols, respectively personifying male images of the British and United States national characters. Recounts their origins, evolutions, and representative values, and includes cartoons depicting the evolution. Describes female counterparts: Britannia and Columbia/Liberty. (CH)