There are key documents that loom so large over American history that they've become iconic. Readers take an in-depth look into these documents and learn how words and ideas can alter the course of events. These documents, including the Constitution and the Magna Carta, continue to provide our nation guiding principles even today. While discussing the most important aspects of each document, fascinating details that don't often appear in elementary school textbooks are highlighted. Engaging text and carefully selected photographs help the audience see connections between history and everyday life. • Topics drawn from elementary social studies curriculum • Fact boxes and sidebars contribute to an appealing page layout • Graphic organizers summarize key points of text • Historical artwork and photographs aid in reading comprehension • For More Information section guides readers to more sources for further exploration of topic