In Building America, noted author-photographer Raymond Bial provides an absorbing account of how technology helped shape and define the American landscape from colonial through frontier times. Under discussion are forts, mills, canals, farms and houses -- their form, purpose and significance in United States history. Of particular note are the ways in which each structure contributed to the survival and growth of America, be it as a method of defense, manufacture, transportation or housing. A medley of the author's and period photographs, archival paintings and line drawings from artist Eric Sloane's celebrated works further enhance a distinguished achievement of historical, architectural and technological interest.