The Florida Almanac

In the first comprehensive reference book on Florida's culture, history, and geography, The Florida Almanac chronicles centuries of economic growth, community, hurricanes and more. Equally handy as it is thorough, The Florida Almanac delivers a resource that's engaging for both the history buff and the casually curious Florida-phile. The clear and accessible chapters are paired with convenient A to Z fact sheets. Impress with trivia on: - Geology: Learn about the rare and common rocks, minerals, and gems found by rock hounders and fossil enthusiasts.- Flora: An overview of Florida vegetation, both invasive and native. - Fauna: Discover how many alligators, panthers, birds and more crawl, fly, and swim throughout the state.- Population: How quickly did Florida go from the 33rd most populous state to the 3rd?- British Florida: Why the end of the Seven Years War meant English claim to Florida.- Bourbon Years: Political and industry leaders from the last quarter of the 19th century.- Mid-Century Florida: The impact of World War II, NASA, Cuban missile Crisis, and the Civil Rights Movement.- And much more... Florida's unique environment and diverse ecosystems have shaped its past and present in ways even born-and-raised Floridians may be unaware of. Irvin D.S. Winsboro, Ph.D. employs decades of teaching experience to bring these connections to light. The former professor of Florida History and African American History expertly uncovers the Sunshine State's rich natural histories of human-environment interaction. Residents and tourists alike will develop a deeper understanding of Florida's past and overlooked role in United States' history. From indigenous communities and first European contact to involvement in the Civil War, the Spanish-American War to Disney World, how the Florida of today came to be is made digestible in The Florida Almanac.

Dr. Irvin D.S. Winsboro, Ph.D. is a full professor emeritus of Florida History and African American History at Florida Gulf Coast University. He retired with the Senior Faculty Scholarship Excellence Award, published 6 books, 13 chapters, 60 articles, and has won two significant book awards, and a prestigious article award. Dr. Winsboro is a longtime member of the Board of Directors of the Florida Historical Society, member of the Board of Editors of the Florida Historical Quarterly, past president of the Florida Conference of Historians, and otherwise a recognized voice in Florida Studies. He lives in Fort Myers.