This text serves to describe the history of American jazz, including its major styles and genres, contributors, and its connection with American history. Artists such as Louie Armstrong, Duke Ellington, Charlie Parker, and John Coltrane are discussed, in addition to the rise of styles including the blues, swing, bebop, and fusion. This text is designed for middle, high school, and collegiate students studying an introductory course on Music History. A supplemental document, Artists of Jazz Music