Since 1940, many archivists in America have devoted their effort to build up the theory of archival appraisal and make significant contribution. Their viewpoint are not only the mainstream of the discussion of appraisal, but also influence the practical work in archives in many countries. This paper aims to introduce and discuss the development of archival appraisal viewpoints in America in order to understand their characteristics and its impact on the work of archival appraisal.