The Cambridge Dictionary of American Biography is a comprehensive biographical reference of Americans, both living and dead. It is not based on any pre-existing work but has been originally compiled with the help of over one hundred consultants, many of international stature, representing different fields of endeavour. Containing over 8900 brief biographies, this book is written for anyone interested in having a basic but eminently readable reference to one's living contemporaries and their achievements as well as to historically important figures. The work covers all careers and all of the history of the United States, from colonial times to the present day. Special attention has been given to provide coverage to worthy individuals belonging to groups often neglected in the past, such as women, African-Americans, and other minority groups.