The first single-volume reference to the events, institutions, and cultural forces that have defined the state, this volume was developed by William S. Powell, whom the Raleigh "News & Observer" described as a "living repository of information on all things North Carolinian." With contributions by more than 550 volunteer writers--including scholars, librarians, journalists, and many others--it is a true "people's encyclopedia" of North Carolina. The volume includes more than 2,000 entries, presented alphabetically, consisting of longer essays on major subjects, briefer entries, and short summaries and definitions. Most entries include suggestions for further reading. Abundantly illustrated with 400 photographs and maps, it is both a celebration and a gift--from the citizens of North Carolina, to the citizens of North Carolina.