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Visit History.com to learn more about the 4th of July! History.com features a special topics page on the history of Independence Day, celebrated throughout the U.S. on the 4th of July. Visit History.com to view short video clips and read original articles about the Declaration of Independence, the onset of the American Revolution, and the celebration of these events each year on July 4th. Viewers can watch actor Matt Damon read the Declaration of Independence, view historical images, and read about the pivotal people and events that shaped the Revolutionary era. This site is a great resource for summer research activities and course units on the American Revolution. More from History.com: View the Independence Day gallery Read about the Declaration of Independence |
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Washington the Warrior Friday, July 2nd at 6/5c One of the most iconic figures in American history, George Washington is considered by many to be the “father” of the United States. Yet , in some ways, Washington remains an icon shrouded in myth, his actual life overshadowed by his image. In this special 2-hour presentation, a fuller understanding of Washington emerges. Washington the Warrior humanizes the nation’s first President by exploring the challenges and mishaps he faced as a young military leader. Historians share surprising stories about Washington’s life and gripping reenactments introduce students to pivotal events in Washington’s career. Covering Washington’s role in the French and Indian War, his life at Mount Vernon, and his years in the Continental Congress, Washington the Warrior traces the pivotal turning points in his early life and military career. This program extends beyond a traditional biography, capturing the characteristics and motivations that made Washington a leader worthy of his nation’s trust. This documentary would be an excellent supplement to lesson plans on the life of George Washington, the formation of the colonies, and the Revolutionary era. Curriculum Links: Washington the Warrior would be an excellent addition to high school courses on American History, Politics, World History, American Studies, or Civics. It fulfills the following standards outlined by the National Council for History Education: (1) Civilization, cultural diffusion and innovation, (2) Human interaction with the environment, (3) Values, beliefs, political ideas, and institutions, and (4) Patterns of social and political interaction. Teacher’s Guide Available: http://www.history.com/images/media/pdf/washingtonthewarrior_study_guide.pdf More from History.com: George Washington video, pictures and facts |
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the States Got Their Shapes Friday, July 2nd at 8/7c Most Americans are familiar with the map of United States, but do we know why our states look the way they do? Every shape on the map tells a great story about our past. Why is California bent and why does Oklahoma have a panhandle? Viewers will learn about how borders were determined because of heated dynamics like the shifting boundaries of slavery, and unexpected events such as earthquakes. This is an excellent program blending geography and history, showing how state borders have been affected by political debate and the natural world. With commentary from historians and compelling visuals, How The States Got Their Shapes gives teachers and students an informative and unique window into the American past. Curriculum Links: How the States Got Their Shapes would be useful for classes on U.S. History, American Culture, Social Studies and Geography courses. It is appropriate for 7th grade and above. This documentary fulfills several National Standards guidelines as outlined by the National Council for History Education including: 1) Values, Beliefs, Political Ideas and Institutions, and 2) Patterns of Social and Political Interaction. Discussion Questions: 1. Which state’s shape do you find most interesting and why? 2. What is one example of how politics affected the boundaries of a state? More from History.com: Can you Place The State? Challenge yourself at Beginner, Intermediate or Expert and see if you rank among the best geographers in the land! |
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Revolution series (13 back-to-back episodes) Saturday, July 3rd from 11am/10c The Revolution is a compelling 13-hour series which captures the remarkable story of the American Revolution from the roots of the rebellion through the victory on the battlefield at Yorktown. This series ventures beyond the conventional list of generals and politicians, introducing a fuller range of individuals and unsung heroes who helped shape this pivotal era. Some of the nation's foremost historians offer provocative political, military, and economic analysis, and up-to-date interpretations of the history and significance of the American Revolution. With first-person reflections drawn from primary sources, this series examines the most important people, events, and ideas from this era. Following the aftermath of the Revolution through the debate over the United States Constitution, this series reveals how the momentum and energy of freedom and independence unleashed by the Revolution influenced the creation of a bold new republic. Curriculum Links: The Revolution would be useful for high school and middle school classes on United States History, Military History, European History, and Colonial History. This documentary fulfills several guidelines outlined by the National Council for History Education including: (1) Values, Beliefs, Political Ideas and Institutions, (2) Conflict and Cooperation, and (3) Patterns of Social and Political Interaction. Special Website Available: http://www.history.com/topics/american-revolution |
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