Robertson's systematic approach, which brings together the full range of labor market programs, adds an unusual an interesting dimension to the study. The constant comparison with British, European, and even Australasian labor market experiences is extremely enlightening. The emphasis on the influence of America's political institutions in shaping its exceptional labor market regime should remind social historians of the importance of that broad institutional/political context. This significant study offers a clearly written and provocative interpretation of American labor market history, and it deserves a wide audience.