Interview by Paul Salfen
New Book Offers a Breathtaking Celebration of Our Nation’s Unique Cultural History Through Stunning Photographs, Intricate Maps and More
Over the past two centuries, the United States has evolved in ways we could have never imagined, from its serene natural views to its unmatched history. During this difficult year, while many are groping to define what unites us, National Geographic takes readers through its legendary photo archives to deliver an up-close-and-personal view of the country we call home in America The Beautiful: A Story in Photographs.
Spanning a period of more than 130 years, this provocative collection of 300 breathtaking photographs depicts the splendor of our great nation as only National Geographic can. Featuring images of all 50 states, six territories, and Washington, D.C., this dramatic combination of modern and historical imagery was hand-selected to define and celebrate the distinct beauty and history found between one shining sea to the next — from the magnificent sweep of California’s Big Sur to Lake Superior’s breathtaking ice caves. In these vivid pages, readers will view the country’s most beloved icons in their early stages — from Mount Rushmore to the Statue of Liberty and the Golden Gate Bridge — reminding us that, sometimes, we need to look back in order to look forward.
Organized by region and inspired by the verses of the original poem and folksong “America the Beautiful,” this remarkable treasury also features illuminating words about every state and territory from the prominent citizens who call them home.
America The Beautiful will also be the subject of a future issue of National Geographic magazine.