Other essays describe the many groups of people who have lived in Texas, from prehistoric cultures to twentieth-century immigrants. Particular attention has been given to the rich historical traditions of the African American and Mexican American communities in Texas, and to the vital historical contributions made by individual women and women's organizations throughout the state. The New Handbook is the one source that readers will turn to again and again for the definitive story on Texas culture, geography, and history. Short descriptive articles present essential information on thousands of individual topics. Longer interpretive essays, prepared by leading experts, describe and analyze broad subject areas and major historical periods.
Bibliographic citations suggest sources for further information.
Thousands of cross-references direct readers to related articles. Many of the illustrations come from the historical period described.