Case studies in each of the parts deal with specific problems in the mainstream of United States history and are designed to help the general level student relate the case study and the theme of the past to similar problems today. Each theme deals with the resolution of conflict in historical ideologies. 1) Studies on intolerance in American life include narratives on the Salem witchcraft trials of 1692, the Palmer raids of 1919, and a narrative on the McCarthy hearings. 2) Studies on protest and dissent in American life include narratives on Shay's rebellion, New York Civil War draft riots, the Haymarket riot, the Chicago Pullman Boycott, and the Schempp case involving the 1963 prayer ban issues. 3) Studies on idealism in American life include: the utopian response to materialism, the humanitarian response to idealism, and a world response to idealism. The selection provides contrast and comparison developed in the juxtaposition of 19th and 20th century idealisms. 4) Technology and the culture of machine living includes narratives on automation, essays on transportation and communication, and science fiction stories presenting the role of the machine today and exploring that role within future life styles. A teacher's guide accompanies each theme. (Author/VLW)