"The Appalachian region, extending from Alabama in the South up to the Allegheny highlands of Pennsylvania, has historically been characterized by its largely rural populations, its rich natural resources, and its undeveloped land.".

"The rugged geography allowed Native American societies, especially the Cherokee, to flourish. Early white settlers tended to favor a self-sufficient approach to farming. But the the growth of a market economy and competition from other agricultural areas of the country sparked an economic decline of the region's rural population at least as early as 1830. The Civil War and the sometimes hostile legislation of Reconstruction made life even more difficult for rural Appalachians.".

"Recent history of the region is marked by the corporate exploitation of oil, gas, and coal resources. Today, radio, television, and the internet provide residents direct links to cultures from all over the world. Touching upon folk traditions, health care, the environment, higher education, the role of blacks and women, and much more, Richard Drake offers a compelling social history of a unique American region."--BOOK JACKET.