Animated Atlas: The Early Colonies

History and geography intersect in Animated Atlas: The Early Colonies, which employs animated maps to illustrate the story of America's New World beginnings. Through the use of color, various overlays, and easily recognized icons, the program creatively points out how a number of factors--including political and religious events in Europe, geographical features in the eastern regions of America, and early forms of colonial government--combined to shape the initial development of the United States. While the Spanish and French colonial efforts are mentioned, the emphasis here is primarily on the English settlements in New England, and the Dutch presence in what is now New York. A solid addition for a U.S. history unit on colonial America, this is recommended. Aud: I, J. (E. Gieschen)