Since its importation to the US by African Slaves and the inception of an "American version" by Euro-American musicians during the 19th century, the five-string banjo became « America's instrument » ; and if its controvesial history covers all the aspects of the American musical life, it also reflects its social and political context. The numerous references listed in A Five-String Banjo Sourcebook try to cover all facets of the instrument and help to understand all the subtelties of a fascinating musical instrument.