Part of the Historical Dictionary series on US politics, this latest foray is the first to address the judicial branch of the federal government, focusing on the Supreme Court as a political institution. Ward, assisted by two graduate students, is very knowledgeable on the subject, having written several books on the Court. At more than 600 pages, this hefty volume provides a comprehensive source of information on all matters pertaining to the Court and, thus, makes for an excellent quick reference. Noteworthy are its extensive chronology, 35-page introduction qua historical essay (well worth reading), and five appendixes. . . .The current work should find a place alongside similar works not only in collections of academic and law libraries, but those supporting political science programs. Public libraries should also consider purchasing. Summing Up: Recommended. All readership levels.This is a good factual reference book. . . .Students struggling to find their way through 226 years of Supreme Court jurisprudence will welcome it.An excellent treatment of& a vast topic&. It deserves to be a research tool for all involved in academics and teaching to judges and attorneys&. [The] opening introduction is most helpful and captures the dynamics of the personalities and social aspects of the Courts growth and its justices. The extensive cross-referencing also provides the reader with a much easier way to follow up on [the] many citations.The Historical Dictionary of the U.S. Supreme Court covers its history through a chronology, an introductory essay, appendixes, and an extensive bibliography. The dictionary section has over 700 cross-referenced entries on every justice, major case, issue, and process that comprises the Courts work.??The US Supreme Court is an institution that operates almost totally behind closed doors. This book opens those doors by providing a comprehensive look at the justices, procedures, cases, and issues over the institutions more than 200-yelă$