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Presidents' Day
From George Washington's birthday to a day honoring all U.S. Presidents, learn how Presidents' Day became a national holiday and its significance today.
First Day of School
Start the school year right with a growth mindset, clear goals, and the support of friends and teachers. Discover tips for making this first day of school your best yet.
Solstices
Discover the science behind Solstices, the longest and shortest days of the year, and how Earth's tilt plays a crucial role in this phenomenon.
Equinoxes
Twice a year, the Earth experiences an equinox – a remarkable cosmic event where day and night are of equal length, all over the world.
Teacher Appreciation Day
Explore why saying "thank you" to your teachers, principals, and other school staff is important everyday, and how you can celebrate Teacher Appreciation Day.
Groundhog Day
Groundhog Day traces its roots from ancient pagan rituals to 17th-century German settlers in Pennsylvania. This February 2nd tradition has evolved into a fun, modern celebration.
The Rise and Fall of Joseph McCarthy
This video tells the story of the rise and fall of Senator Joseph McCarthy, a fierce partisan and demagogue whose battles against Communism in early 1950s America utilized the new medium of television to garner public attention. Preying upon the public's fear of communism within the U.S. government, he hurled accusations against numerous political enemies often with little or no evidence, and with scant regard to the principles of due process, free speech, and liberty. The new medium of television, which helped his meteoric political rise, would ultimately play a key role in his undoing.
The Notorious Aaron Burr
You may know him as the man who killed Alexander Hamilton, but do you know the full story of one of American History's most notorious characters? Our latest Homework Help Institute of History video brings you the story of Aaron Burr, his rise to the position of governor of New York and vice president of the United States, and his spectacular downfall.
African Americans in the Gilded Age
This video provides a general overview of the experience of African Americans during the pivotal years of the Gilded Age, from the 1860s to the early 1900s. Despite the passage of the 13th, 14th, and 15th Amendments to the Constitution after the Civil War, which abolished slavery and granted citizenship and voting rights to African American men, millions of African Americans across the nation still faced an uphill struggle for equality and civil rights. Political disenfranchisement was widespread and segregation in the form of "Jim Crow" laws affected nearly every facet of public and private life in the South. Many African Americans migrated from the South to the North and West during this period. This era also saw the rise of dozens of notable African American civil rights leaders including Ida B. Wells, Frederick Douglass, Booker T. Washington, and W.E.B. Du Bois. Groups like the N.A.AC.P. were also established during this period to fight for the expansion of liberty and equality for African Americans.
Entrepreneurs: A History
This video focuses on the so-called "Robber Barons" or "Captains of Industry" of the late 19th and early 20th century, including Andrew Carnegie, John D. Rockefeller, J.P. Morgan, and Henry Ford. How did these men and those like them transform the U.S. economy during the Gilded Age, and what, if any, lessons do their stories have for us today?
The Origins of Partisanship
This video addresses the origins of partisanship in the United States. In the late 18th Century, the new nation was at risk of being torn apart as factions developed between Federalists and Anti-Federalists whose differences over the nature and structure of the new government played out in pamphlets, newspaper essays, state ratifying conventions, in taverns, and on street corners. Some compromise was reached with the ratification of The Bill of Rights, but differences over policy continued to play out among factions and the Federalists and Democratic-Republican parties formed. This video is intended as a general overview of this period of U.S. History, and a springboard for a deeper exploration of the various political disputes of the late 1700s and early 1800s.
The Story of "Boss" Tweed
This video tells the story of William "Boss" Tweed. Tracing his rise to political power in post Civil War New York City, a metropolis whose population was booming from an influx of European immigrants, this video explores the question of whether Tweed was a hero, a villain, or something in between.
Loyal American: Fred Korematsu
In this Homework Help narrative, learn the story of Fred Korematsu and his lifelong struggle for justice for himself and the thousands of Japanese-Americans wrongfully interned by the U.S. government during World War II.
Elizabeth Cady Stanton and the Stronghold of the Fortress
In this Homework Help Narrative, learn about the courage and determination of Elizabeth Cady Stanton and the origins of the Seneca Falls Convention of 1848.
Immigration to America
The rise in immigration to the United States in the 1840's altered the economic, cultural, and political climate of the nation in the first half of the 19th century.
The Rise of Mass Politics: Jacksonian Democracy
This video examines the Rise of Mass Politics and Jacksonian Democracy.
National Identity In The Early 1800s
This video discusses national identity in early America.
Early 1800s US Foreign Policy
This video discusses early American foreign policy.
The Constitution
This video discuses the need for a Constitution.
The Articles of Confederation
This video tackles the Articles of Confederation and the need for a Constitution
Philosophy Behind the Constitution
This video tackles the philosophical ideas behind the United States Constitution.
Foreign Impact During the Revolution
In our new Homework Help Series we break down history into easy to understand 5 minute videos to support a better understanding of American History.
Road To Revolution
In our new Homework Help Series we break down history into easy to understand 5 minute videos to support a better understanding of American History. In our fifth episode, we tackle the road to the American Revolution.
Colonial Culture
In our new Homework Help Series we break down history into easy to understand 5 minute videos to support a better understanding of American History. In our fourth episode, we tackle Colonial Culture in the 1600 and 1700's.
Development of Slavery in North America
In our new Homework Help Series we break down history into easy to understand 5 minute videos to support a better understanding of American History. In our tenth episode, we tackle early American foreign policy
The Colonization of America
In our new Homework Help Series we break down history into easy to understand 5 minute videos to support a better understanding of American History. In our second episode, we tackle the colonization of America.
The Columbian Exchange
Have you ever looked at your teacher with a puzzled face when they explain history? I know we have. In our new Homework Help Series we break down history into easy to understand 5 minute videos to support a better understanding of American History. In our first episode, we tackle the Columbian Exchange and early contact between Europeans, Natives and Africans.
Dred Scott v. Sandford
The Dred Scott v Sandford case of 1857 was brought to the Supreme Court just four years before the start of the Civil War. Dred Scott sued his master for his freedom and Judge Robert Taney ultimately ruled two things in the Dred Scott decision. First, African Americans were not citizens and had no right to sue in court. Second, Congress did not have the constitutional authority to ban slavery from the states. This case is considered one of the worst rulings in the history of the Supreme Court.
Miranda v. Arizona
Miranda v Arizona was a case brought to the Supreme Court in 1966 after Ernesto Miranda appealed his guilty conviction of kidnapping and rape. In his appeal, Miranda claimed he was unaware of his right to remain silent, and his resulting confession should not be used to incriminate him. The Supreme Court ruled in favor of Miranda and established the Miranda Warning, otherwise known as Miranda Rights. This warning is now recited in most instances of arrest to ensure the accused people are aware of their rights.
Grutter v. Bollinger
Grutter v. Bollinger was a case brought to the Supreme Court over the use of Affirmative Action in the college admissions process. The University of Michigan Law School denied acceptance to Barbara Grutter, despite her impressive resume. Grutter, a white woman, believed that her rejection was based on her race. The Supreme Court Justices ultimately ruled that the University of Michigan Law School’s admissions process was constitutional and did not violate the Equal Protection Clause in the 14th Amendment. Incorporation, the process of states being held liable to the Bill of Rights, allowed the Supreme Court to hear and rule on the case. However, there was doubt among the most conservative Supreme Court justices like Scalia and Rehnquist that affirmative action policy was a constitutional practice for university admission departments to take part in. Affirmative Action is still a highly debated topic today.
Regents of the University of California v. Bakke
Regents of the University of California v. Bakke was a case brought to the Supreme Court over the use of Affirmative Action in the college admission process. The University of California at Davis Medical School created a minimum minority student quota for the admissions department to fill each year. Bakke, a two-time UC-Davis Med School rejected applicant, sued the school for violation of the Equal Protection Clause of the 14th Amendment and Title VI of the Civil Rights Acts. Ultimately, the Supreme Court justices ruled in support of the goals of Affirmative Action because of incorporation, the idea that the states must adhere to the protections of the Bill of Rights. They also stated that Bakke was, in fact, denied equal protection. This decision, because it was so muddled, did not set long-term precedents or clarifications concerning Affirmative Action. What is Affirmative Action? Affirmative Action is a policy, usually carried out by schools, businesses, government entities, and federal contractors, in which individuals of minority racial status are afforded preferential treatment on the basis of race. Affirmative action came about as part of a desire to rectify the traditional underrepresentation of minority peoples in desirable professions and universities, which negatively impacted their financial and social conditions.
Citizens United v. FEC
Citizens United v. FEC was a Supreme Court case surrounding campaign finance and corporate involvement in politics. The Federal Election Commission was created in 1971 and greatly regulated the amount of campaign finance political candidates were able to receive. By 2002, the Bipartisan Campaign Finance Reform Act (McCain-Feingold Act) restricted organizations from financing issue-based advertisements on behalf of candidates. This Citizens United v FEC summary explains how Citizens United released a million dollar ad against Hillary Clinton. Before the film aired, Citizens United challenged the McCain-Feingold Act, stating that money was a form of Free Speech, which is protected by the First Amendment. The Supreme Court ruled the McCain-Feingold Act as unconstitutional, but stated that corporations still cannot give money directly to political candidates.
Gibbons v. Ogden
Gibbons v Ogden was a Supreme Court case dealing with interstate commerce. Learn about Aaron Ogden, who in 1824 received a monopoly over steamboat access to the Hudson River thanks to a newly created New York law in this Gibbons v Ogden summary. On the other hand, Thomas Gibbons held a federal license to operate his steamboat between New York and New Jersey. Gibbons won unanimously through his connection of the Interstate Commerce Clause and Supremacy Clause. New York’s law was overturned and Gibbons, along with other steamboat operators were able to participate in Interstate Commerce via waterways.
Schenck v. United States
Schenck v. United States was a Supreme Court Case that explained some limits to the Freedom of Speech afforded by the First Amendment. During World War I, the US instituted a military draft. Many people released anti-war and anti-government information due to their displeasure with the draft. Charles Schenck, an anti-war socialist, was arrested by the Federal Government for circulating a pamphlet encouraging men to resist the draft and violating the Espionage Act of 1917. The Supreme Court ruled that wartime circumstances changed the rules related to free speech and resulted in the “Clear and Present Danger” rule.
McCulloch v. Maryland
McCulloch v Maryland was the 1819 Supreme Court case dealing mostly with the issue of Federalism. This McCulloch v Maryland summary explains the creation of a National Bank which was encouraged by Alexander Hamilton, but opposed by Thomas Jefferson, due to lack of authority given by the Constitution. The first National Bank was chartered, but then died 20 years later. In 1816, a National Bank was re-instated to help deal with debts from the War of 1812. This Second National Bank, established in Maryland, was taxed heavily by Thomas Jefferson and the State of Maryland. Federal Bank Cashier, James McCulloch, refused to pay the tax, stating that the state did not have the right to tax an institution of the Federal Government. Ultimately, the Supreme Court stated that Congress had the right to create the National Bank, under the Necessary and Proper Clause. Also, the State of Maryland did not have the right to tax the National Bank and the Federal Government under the Supremacy Clause.
Brown v. Board of Education
Brown v Board of Education was a case brought to the Supreme Court in 1954 after Linda Brown, an African American student in Kansas, was denied access to the white-only schools nearby her house. Future Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall was the lawyer for the case, and argued that segregated schools were inherently unequal. Ultimately, the Supreme Court ruled in favor of Linda Brown and declared segregation unconstitutional under the Equal Protection Clause of the 14th Amendment through incorporation under the premise that the bill of rights also applies to the states. This is one of the landmark cases that led to the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
Marbury v. Madison
This Marbury vs Madison summary video displays William Marbury as a judge appointed at the end of John Adams’ presidency but who never got his official commission papers. Once Thomas Jefferson became president, James Madison refused to deliver the commission papers. Marbury took his case to the Supreme Court and wanted a Writ of Mandamus, requiring Madison to deliver the papers. Ultimately, the court stated that Marbury was entitled to his papers, but it was unconstitutional for the courts to issue a Writ of Mandamus. Thus, judicial review was created, and the principle of checks and balances was strengthened through Marbury vs Madison.
Protests at the White House
There is a rich history of protests and demonstrations at the White House and Lafayette Park, from the suffragists' silent pickets to a peace vigil that has spanned across decades.
Building The White House
The White House stands as a symbol of freedom, but the story behind its construction reveals some important contradictions.
First Ladies
The role of the First Lady of the United States has changed over the years. These women have shaped the White House as well as the nation.
Ecosystem Services
Ecosystem services are essential gifts from nature, including food, clean air, water, and more. These services benefit both humans and all life on Earth. For instance, bees' pollination aids food growth, while wetlands store carbon and purify water. Protecting nature safeguards these vital services for our well-being and survival.
Life in the Colonies: Indigenous Communities
The arrival of Europeans and creation of the 13 colonies led to immense challenges and profound changes for Indigenous peoples.
Life in the Colonies: Work
The Thirteen Colonies were built by a diverse workforce including skilled laborers, indentured servants, enslaved people, and criminals, in stark contrast to modern labor practices.
Life in the Colonies: African Enslavement
Africans brought to the Thirteen Colonies faced hardships and resisted slavery in their quest for freedom.
Life in the Colonies: Women
In the Thirteen Colonies, women had limited rights and freedoms. Their lives, influenced by marriage, status, and coverture laws varied greatly, reflecting the evolving society of the time.
Presidential Transportation
U.S. Presidential transportation has evolved over time, from George Washington's horse-drawn carriage to the modern "Air Force One" and "The Beast."
West Virginia State Board of Education v. Barnette
Should students be required to salute the flag? In 1943, the Supreme Court heard a case after Jehovah's Witnesses in West Virginia refused to comply with a school board policy requiring they salute the U.S. flag during the Pledge of Allegiance. How did the Court rule? Find out with our latest Homework Help video!
United States v. Nixon
Can the President of the United States withhold certain information from Congress and the courts? During the Watergate Scandal, President Richard Nixon attempted to withhold recording tapes from the White House from investigators. The Supreme Court’s ruling would have huge impacts on the system of checks and balances within the United States' governing system.
The Third Amendment
Why did the Founders believe so strongly that troops should not be quartered in the homes of citizens that they enshrined this protection in the Bill of Rights? The Third Amendment is rarely talked about, but studying its origins and purposes is important in order to understand our system of the relationship between civilians and the military. Learn more about the story of the Third Amendment with this Homework Help video.
The Second Amendment
What are the origins of the Second Amendment, and how has it been interpreted throughout U.S. history? This Homework Help video explores the history of the Second Amendment as well as the Supreme Court interpretations of it that shape current discussions on the topic of gun control.
The Fourth Amendment
What prevents the police from randomly searching our homes and possessions whenever they want? The Founders created the Fourth Amendment to protect the individual right to private property. Learn more about its origins and some landmark Supreme Court cases in our latest Homework Help video.
The Fifth Amendment
What protections does the Fifth Amendment provide, and why did the Founders believe those were important enough to enshrine in the Bill of Rights? Our latest Homework Help video explores these questions and provides students with a succinct overview of the essential information regarding this amendment.
Shaw v Reno
Can a state draw district lines to increase the voting power of a minority? The Supreme Court took up this question in the 1993 case of Shaw v. Reno. Following the 1962 Baker v. Carr Supreme Court case, which ruled that the Supreme Court could hear cases on gerrymandering because of the Equal Protection Clause in the 14th Amendment through the process of incorporation, Shaw v. Reno challenged the constitutionality of gerrymandering based on race.
Reconstruction
How did the United States attempt to reunite after the Civil War while also securing the rights of recently freed enslaved people and how successful was our country in accomplishing these goals? Our latest Homework Help video explores these questions while encouraging students to analyze the Reconstruction period and its relationship with the principles of liberty and equality.
Kelo v. New London
Under what circumstances can the government take your property? In 2005, the Supreme Court took on this question in the case of Kelo v. New London. The court argued about whether applying the 5th Amendment to the states using the Due Process Clause of the 14th Amendment was constitutional or unconstitutional. This process is referred to as incorporation. Our latest Homework Help video reviews the details of the case and encourages students to analyze the decision to form their own opinions.
Free Assembly
Why is the freedom of assembly an essential right in a free society? Our Homework Help video explores why the Founders included it in the 1st Amendment as well as the landmark Supreme Court cases involving it. Supreme Court cases arguing freedom of assembly debate the protections of the 14th Amendment. Although the Bill of Rights was initially limited to the federal government, incorporation also allows states to be culpable of the protections in the Bill of Rights.
Establishment Clause
What is the proper relationship between church and state? In this Homework Help video, we analyze this question by reviewing the history behind the Establishment Clause of the First Amendment as well as how the Supreme Court has interpreted its meaning.
Engel v. Vitale
Is school-sponsored prayer in public schools a violation of the establishment clause of the First Amendment? In 1951, some New York schools began starting the day with a non-denominational prayer. Our latest Homework Help video tells the story of the ensuing landmark Supreme Court case of Engel v. Vitale.
Wisconsin v. Yoder
Religious liberty is one of the foundational principles of American society, but how should it be balanced with government interests in an educated citizenry? Our second Homework Help video of the semester is on the landmark case of Wisconsin v. Yoder, and how the Supreme Court dealt with this important question.
South Dakota v. Dole
Why is the drinking age set at 21? This Homework Help video explores the dispute between states and the federal government over the legal age, and how it is an example of the principle of federalism in action.
Principle of Equality
Why is equality a bedrock principle in the United States? Our final Homework Help video of 2021 explores the origins of this principle and how our nation has not always lived up to it throughout our history.
Plessy v. Ferguson
How did the odious doctrine of “separate but equal” become legally permissible in the U.S.? This Homework Help narrative explores the story of the Plessy v. Ferguson Supreme Court case.
Origins and Purposes of the Bill of Rights
Why did the Founders see the need to create a Bill of Rights? What historical documents and events influenced them as they drafted it? This latest installment in our Homework Help series explores these important constitutional questions.
New York Times Co. v. United States
How to best balance liberty and security has been a perennial question throughout U.S. history. This Homework Help video explores how the Supreme Court addressed this question in the landmark case of New York Times Co. v. United States.
Mapp v. Ohio
Can the police use illegally seized evidence in a court of law? The landmark Supreme Court case Mapp v. Ohio addressed this issue, and the decision has had a lasting impact in the United States.
Incorporation
In this Homework Help narrative, learn about the constitutional principle of incorporation and its historic context. Has incorporating the Bill of Rights to apply to the states created greater liberty for Americans?
Freedom of the Press
What do you think of when you hear the words "free press"? The Founders believed the freedom of the press to be an important bulwark in a free society. Learn more about the history of the First Amendment as well as some landmark Supreme Court cases involving press freedom with this Homework Help video.
Free Speech
Why is the freedom of speech a bedrock principle in American society? In our latest Homework Help video, we explore the history of freedom of speech in the United States.
Free Exercise Clause
Why did the Founders believe that religious liberty was an inalienable right? In this Homework Help video, we explore the history behind the Free Exercise Clause of the First Amendment and how the Supreme Court has interpreted it.
Federalism
This Homework Help narrative explores the history of the Founding of the U.S. and the reasons why federalism was created as an important part of our constitutional system. The video challenges viewers to consider this question: why do we have a system with local, state, and federal laws?
Bush v. Gore
Why was the presidential election of 2000 so controversial, and what constitutional questions were raised during the vote count? Our first Homework Help video of the semester explores these questions and will help your students understand the fundamental issues at hand in the case of Bush v. Gore!
U.S. v. Lopez
This Homework Help narrative explores the landmark case of U.S. v. Lopez and its lasting impact on federalism. Students will study the topic of federal power and street crime while forming their own opinions on the merits of the case.
The Story of Women's Suffrage in America (Part 2)
In part two of this two-part Homework Help narrative, learn about the challenges that the women’s suffrage movement overcame in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. What contributions did monumental suffragists like Alice Paul, Lucy Stone, and Carrie Chapman Catt make on the journey to winning the vote for women?
The Story of Women's Rights in Early America (Part 1)
In part one of this two-part Homework Help narrative, learn about the origins of the women’s suffrage movement from Colonial America through the nineteenth century. What challenges did these brave activists need to overcome in the early days of the movement to lay the groundwork for the passage of the Nineteenth Amendment?
The Electoral College
In this Homework Help narrative, learn about the origins and functions of the Electoral College. This constitutional institution has long been the subject of intense debate and scrutiny, and this video challenges students to think about it for themselves.
Baker v. Carr
In this Homework Help video, learn the story of the landmark Supreme Court case of Baker v. Carr. How did the ruling in this case contribute to the democratic principle of “one person-one vote”?
Tinker v. Des Moines
Why did a subtle act of protest against a foreign war reach the Supreme Court? In 1965, students John and Mary Beth Tinker wore black armbands to school to protest the United States’ involvement in the Vietnam War, despite the Des Moines school district prohibiting such an act. The Tinkers sued the district for violating their First Amendment rights, and the Supreme Court ruled in their favor in a 7-2 decision. While subsequent Supreme Court rulings narrowed the scope of free expression rights at school, Tinker v. Des Moines remains a landmark case that has defined First Amendment rights for students.
Roe v. Wade
Do women have a right to privacy when deciding whether to have an abortion? In 1969, a woman under the alias “Jane Roe” challenged a Texas law that outlawed abortions. The case eventually reached the Supreme Court, where Roe argued that a woman’s right to privacy in having an abortion is protected by the Constitution. In a 7-2 decision, the Court ruled the right to an abortion fell within the right to privacy protected by the Fourteenth Amendment’s Due Process Clause. To this day, the ruling in Roe v. Wade remains one of the most controversial Supreme Court decisions.
McDonald v. Chicago
Does the Second Amendment prevent a city from effectively outlawing handgun ownership? In 2008, Otis McDonald attempted to purchase a handgun for self-defense purposes in a Chicago suburb. However, the city of Chicago had banned handgun ownership in 1982 when it passed a law that prevented issuing handgun registrations. McDonald argued this law violated the Fourteenth Amendment’s Privileges and Immunities Clause as well as the Due Process Clause. In a 5-4 decision, the Court ruled that McDonald’s Second Amendment right to bear arms was protected at the state and local level by the Due Process Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment.
Gideon v. Wainwright
Does an individual have a right to a lawyer, regardless of the crime he or she is charged with? In 1961, Clarence Gideon was arrested and charged with breaking and entering and petty larceny in Panama City, Florida. His request for a state-provided defense attorney was denied since Florida law only required doing so for capital offense cases. After Gideon was sentenced to 5 years in prison, he argued that Florida violated the Sixth Amendment’s guarantee of the right to counsel. The Supreme Court heard Gideon’s case and ruled in a 9-0 decision that the Sixth Amendment’s guarantee of an attorney applies to states through the Due Process Clause of the 14th Amendment.
Postcolonial Literature
Giving voice to the oppressed, discover how authors like Achebe, Rushdie and Adichie postcolonial literature to express the impacts of colonialism, reshaping identity and independence narratives from Africa to Asia.
Kate Chopin
Kate Chopin's groundbreaking novels and short stories drew on her experiences of growing up and living in the multicultural South, and boldly explores taboo themes of race, class, and female sexuality in 19th century society.
Ibi Zoboi
Ibi Zoboi's journey from Haiti to New York inspired her to write novels that capture the immigrant experience's diversity and challenges, blending elements of fantasy, social justice and cultural identity in her impactful young adult fiction.
Let’s Go To India
India is the largest country in Southeast Asia that’s famous for its stunning architecture, Bollywood movies and super spicy food. Let’s find out more!
Doppler Effect (IB)
A visual explanation of the Doppler Effect as it applies to sound waves.
Motion of Charged Particles in a Uniform Magnetic Field (IB)
A visual explanation of the path of charged particles in a uniform magnetic field, according to their charge and their angle of entry into the magnetic field. Includes how to calculate the radius of the particle’s path.
Mitosis Compared to Meiosis (IB)
An outline of mitosis and meiosis forms of cell division: comparing the similarities and differences between them, and outlining their function in organisms.
Viruses and the Lysogenic Cycle (IB)
An outline of the lytic and lysogenic cycles, using bacterial cells and the viruses which infect them as a visual example. Additional reference to the Herpes simplex virus as an animal example.
Hydrogen Emission Spectrum (IB)
A visual explanation of how the hydrogen emission spectrum provides evidence for the arrangement of electrons in discrete energy levels in atoms.
Collisions in Two Dimensions (IB)
A guide to understanding and applying the conservation of momentum, during collisions when the motion of the colliding bodies is not restricted to one dimension.
Thermal Conduction (IB)
A visual explanation of the factors which affect the rate of thermal energy transfer by conduction.
Compton Effect (IB)
A visual outline of the Compton Effect experiment, in which photons are scattered by electrons they hit. Includes context on what evidence this provides regarding the wave or particle nature of light.
Chromatography (IB)
An outline of how chromatography is used to separate the components of a substance based on each component’s intermolecular interactions with the materials it is moving through. Includes guidance on how to calculate each substance’s signature retardation factor.
Conservation of Angular Momentum (IB)
An outline of the basic principle of conservation of angular momentum, illustrating the inverse relationship between angular velocity and moment of inertia, with real-world examples.
Greenhouse Effect (IB)
An outline of the energy balance model of the Earth-atmosphere system, including how to calculate the effect of greenhouse gases, and the atmosphere, on Earth’s average temperature.
Stellar Parallax (IB)
An explanation of how the stellar parallax method can be used to calculate distances to stars, including the limitations of this method.
Methods of Charging (IB)
An outline of three ways electric charge can be moved between objects, including mention of how non-conducting objects can become charged.
Photosynthesis (IB)
An in-depth outline of photosynthesis, including light-dependent and light-independent reactions, how it is powered by excited electrons and ATP, and processes such as photolysis, chemiosmosis and the Calvin Cycle.
Nucleophilic Substitution (IB)
An outline of how both SN1 and SN2 types of nucleophilic substitution reaction occur, including covering the nature of electrophiles and nucleophiles.
Interpreting Diverse Media
From books to movies, documentaries to podcasts, and image searches to galleries, embracing diverse media enriches your understanding and transforms your research into a multi-faceted journey of discovery.
When to Capitalize Letters
Capital letters might not get your pulse racing, but they’re still vital. They indicate the beginning of sentences, signal proper nouns, names, and titles, and highlight key words in titles, enhancing clarity and understanding in writing.
Tommy Orange
Tommy Orange, a groundbreaking Indigenous American author, illuminates urban Indigenous experiences with a unique narrative.
The Lost Generation
The devastation and disillusionment that resonated through society in the aftermath of World War I had a profound impact on the literary landscape, notably a group of U.S. writers living in Europe, including Ernest Hemingway and F. Scott Fitzgerald. These writers are known as the Lost Generation.
Victorian Literature
Exploring the diversity of Victorian Literature, we discover how authors like Charles Dickens, the Brontë Sisters and Lewis Carroll captured the ideals and issues of a rapidly industrializing society, weaving tales of innovation, societal norms and adventure in 19th Century England.
Juxtaposition
Juxtaposition highlights similarities and differences between two things, giving you a deeper understanding of characters, plot and theme and making storytelling much more impactful.
How to Write a Strong Research Question
Crafting the right research question is a crucial step in developing the analytical skills necessary for school and life!
W.W.Jacobs
Author W.W. Jacobs crafted a unique blend of Gothic horror and dark comedy in his writings, most notably in 'The Monkey’s Paw', to inspire horror icons like Stephen King and Alfred Hitchcock.
Pam Muñoz Ryan
Author of groundbreaking novels like “Esperanza Rising" and "Echo," Pam Muñoz Ryan has made literature more representative by expertly mining her own rich Mexican American heritage.
Audre Lorde
Audre Lorde, a trailblazing Black feminist, poet, and essayist, passionately explored intersectionality, identity, and activism, leaving an enduring impact on literature and social justice.
Transcendentalism
Transcendentalism is a spiritual, philosophical and literary movement that emerged in the United States in the 19th century. With its emphasis on individualism and the inherent goodness of all people, discover how it impacted civil rights movements via works by Louisa May Alcott, Henry David Thoreau and others.
Existentialism
Dive into the world of Existentialism, where authors like Dostoevsky, Sartre and Camus challenge readers to find personal meaning amidst life's absurdities, blending deep philosophical questions with relatable human struggles.
Jacqueline Woodson
Jacqueline Woodson's journey, from her upbringing during the Civil Rights movement to becoming a celebrated children's author, showcases her dedication to creating stories that resonate with diverse experiences, especially for young Black readers.
Walter Dean Myers
Author of more than 100 books for young readers, Walter Dean Myers overcame many struggles in his personal life to write stories that represented the Black experience and the struggles of young Americans.
Jason Reynolds
Author Jason Reynolds has transformed young adult literature with his unique writing style, merging poetry with colloquial language to reflect the lives of Black and Brown youth in the US and beyond.
Nic Stone
Author Nic Stone tried many jobs before finding passion in writing, when her travels abroad inspired her to write stories and novels that spotlight issues faced by marginalized groups across the globe.
Epistolary
Discover the captivating world of epistolary literature, where stories unfold through letters and documents. Explore its rich history, unique storytelling elements, and how it connects readers to characters' inner thoughts and feelings.
Realism
Realism is a genre of writing that explores the real world, in all its gritty glory. Defined by authors like Gustav Flaubert, Edith Wharton and Alice Walker, realist writers often expose societal flaws, offering insights into the real-life struggles and the triumphs of ordinary people.
The Bald Eagle
The Bald Eagle, symbolizing strength and freedom, reflects the spirit of the United States. Chosen as the country’s national bird in 1782, this powerful animal is unique to North America.
Coming of Age
Coming of age stories chart a character’s journey from childhood through adolescence and into adulthood. This genre is also known by the German word, 'Bildungsroman'. We take a look at some classics of the genre, from Charles Dickens' Great Expectations to Harper Lee's To Kill a Mockingbird.
Newtown: A Crushing Defeat for the Iroquois
The Revolutionary War was never a simple story of Patriot vs Redcoat. Older nations with far deeper American roots were also caught up in the war. To secure their future, the nations of the Iroquois Confederacy had to choose a side – and in many ways, their long term fate was decided on the day of the Battle of Newtown.
Making Connections Within the Text
One of the primary joys of reading is seeing yourself in a character, or seeing world events mirrored in the plot of a book. This is called making connections with texts and it not only enhances enjoyment, it also enhances understanding and your ability as a reader.
Planning For A Research Paper
In the world of research and writing, planning is an essential roadmap that keeps you on course, prevents stress and detours, and leads to more efficient and higher-quality work.
The Federal Trade Commission
The Federal Trade Commission is an independent agency dedicated to limiting the power of big business, protecting consumer rights and ensuring fair competition. It’s the reason you can buy what you want, when you want it – providing you have the money.
Gary Soto
Gary Soto, a Mexican-American author and poet, captures the essence of youth and Chicano experiences in his stories, blending humor and the magic of everyday life.
Progressive Leaders
During the Gilded Age, an era of both wealth and want, progressive leaders like Ida B. Wells and Theodore Roosevelt led crucial reforms that changed the lives of working people and minorities.
Women’s Suffrage Timeline
Between 1848 and 1920, the women’s suffrage movement in the United States campaigned tirelessly for the right to vote, overcoming divisions to spearhead the Nineteenth Amendment.
Military Leaders of the Civil War
Grant, Lee, and Jackson are names synonymous with the American Civil war, but how did their strategies and decisions influence the outcome of America's bloodiest conflict?
Technology Timeline
From barbed wire to the automobile, key inventions between 1870 and 1900 revolutionized American farming, communication, entertainment, and transportation.
Checks and Balances
The U.S. Constitution ensures no part of the government has too much power through a system called checks and balances.
Service
Service and volunteering are at the heart of happy, healthy communities. Learn who volunteers and serves in your community, how they help and what it does for society.
The Monroe Doctrine
In 1823, President James Monroe redefined U.S. foreign policy with a three-paragraph addition to his State of the Union address. The Monroe Doctrine ultimately led to a new era of U.S. imperialism.
Representative Democracy
In the United States citizens elect leaders at local, state, and national levels to make important decisions on their behalf. It's called Representative democracy.
The Sons and Daughters of Liberty
In 1765, two secretive groups formed in Boston, Massachusetts to resist rising British taxes. The Sons and Daughters of Liberty forced the repeal of the Stamp Act and lit the spark of colonial independence.
Harriet Beecher Stowe
At a time when more than 3 million African Americans were enslaved in the United States, Harriet Beecher Stowe wrote a groundbreaking book that galvanized the public to call for their freedom.
Common Sense
Published in 1776, Thomas Paine's 47-page pamphlet, "Common Sense", sold hundreds of thousands of copies across the colonies. By employing relatable language and Biblical references, it rallied many to the cause of American independence.
Martin Luther King, Jr.
Born in Georgia in 1929, Martin Luther King, Jr. helped transform lives not just in the United States, but around the world.
Frederick Douglass
Born into slavery around 1818, Frederick Douglass was a writer and activist who compelled the nation to confront the stark contradictions between its founding principles and the realities of the time.
People and Their Environment
For centuries, humans have depended on, adapted to and modified the natural environment to survive and thrive. But the environment has also shaped the ways that we live.
The American Civil War
From 1861 to 1865, the American Civil War saw the United States divided. Follow the major events of the bloodiest conflict in the nation’s history.
The Thirteen Colonies: 1607 - 1763
Over 200 years, British settlers successfully founded the Thirteen Colonies, driven by desires for religious freedom, self-governance, and economic opportunities.
The Spanish-American War
The Spanish-American War, triggered by the mysterious destruction of an American warship in Cuba, swiftly ended Spanish colonial rule and established the U.S. as a dominant global power.
Louisiana Purchase
The Louisiana Purchase of 1803 nearly doubled the size of the United States. But expansion to the West would bring new challenges for the fledgling country.
Dred Scott v. Sandford
Dred Scott's fight for freedom led to a Supreme Court decision that denied citizenship to Black Americans, fuelling tensions that contributed to the Civil War.
The Election of 1860
The 1860 presidential election, pivotal in U.S. history, catapulted Abraham Lincoln to power, intensified national divisions over slavery, and led directly to the Civil War.
Trails of the West
In the 1800s, as the United States expanded, thousands travelled well-worn trails on foot and horseback in search of land and opportunity, often at the expense of Indigenous Peoples.
Chocolate
Tracing the transformation of chocolate from a ceremonial drink in ancient Aztec and Inca culture to today’s mouthwatering sweet treat.
The Gadsden Purchase
In 1853, the United States paid Mexico $10 million for less than 30,000 square miles of land, facilitating the completion of a Southern transcontinental railroad and decades of economic growth.
First Ladies
Can you imagine what it's like to be FLOTUS - the First Lady of the United States? In this video, learn about how the role of First Lady has changed over time.
Secession and Confederacy
In 1860, tensions over slavery pushed the United States to the brink of collapse, leading to secession of 11 states and the creation of the Confederacy.
The Pledge of Allegiance
The Pledge of Allegiance is a promise that Americans make to their country. It's also a way to show they are proud to be American. In this video, learn what the Pledge of Allegiance says, and what it means.
The Liberty Bell
In the United States, the Liberty Bell is a symbol of freedom. In this video, learn about the history of the bell, and why it is still important today.
The Supreme Court
The Supreme Court is the most powerful court in the United States. In this video, learn about the history of the court, and what it represents to the country.
Constitutional Foundations: Part Two
The U.S. Constitution transformed Enlightenment ideas about government, power, and rights into the laws that shaped the foundation of the United States for generations.
Spanish America
This video explores Spain’s colonization of the Americas, from Columbus' arrival in 1492 to the 1800s. It highlights the exploitation of indigenous peoples, the impact of European diseases, and the transatlantic slave trade.
World War II: Part Two
This video covers the key events of World War II from 1941 to 1945, highlighting the turning of the tide against the Axis powers, the atrocities of the Holocaust, and the devastating final moments of the conflict.
World War II: Part One
This video outlines the early years of World War II, a devastating conflict that reshaped the world between 1939 and 1945. The timeline captures key moments from the rise of Nazi Germany to the turning tides of the Allied resistance.
The Ottoman Empire
This video traces the history of the Ottoman Empire, a vast and influential dynasty that lasted 600 years, spanning Eastern Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East. The timeline captures its moments of conquest, cultural brilliance, and eventual dissolution.
Imperial Russia
This video explores Imperial Russia's rise and fall, a vast empire marked by territorial expansion, cultural repression, and social unrest. The timeline traces pivotal events from the reign of Peter the Great to the 1917 Revolution that ended the Romanov dynasty.
The Colonization of Australia
This video examines the colonization of Australia, a complex history marked by European settlement and profound impacts on Aboriginal communities. The timeline follows key events from early explorations to the recognition of Indigenous rights.
1960s America
This video delves into the transformative decade of the 1960s in America, marked by civil rights breakthroughs, cultural revolutions, and global tensions. It captures a period of profound change and enduring contrasts.
The Capitol
The Capitol is a symbol of the United States government and the people. In this video, learn about the history of the building, and why it is important.
The Second Great Awakening
Between the 1790s and the 1830s, the United States experienced a Second Great Awakening, as religious revivalists campaigned to improve the moral and spiritual character of the country.
Abraham Lincoln
Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President, transformed the U.S. by ending slavery and leading the nation through the Civil War with wisdom and courage.
Indira Gandhi
Indira Gandhi, born in 1917, was India's first female Prime Minister. Known for her bold leadership and the Green Revolution, she played a crucial role in India’s history and inspired women worldwide.
Mary Robinson
Mary Robinson, Ireland's first female President and UN Human Rights Commissioner, dedicated her life to advocating for justice. She visited crisis zones and campaigned for refugees, women's rights, and climate change.
Hypatia
Hypatia, born in Ancient Egypt, excelled in mathematics and philosophy. She taught Neoplatonism, drew huge crowds, and became a key figure in Alexandria.
Peggy Guggenheim
Eccentric socialite, Peggy Guggenheim, was born in New York in 1898. After her fathers death she inherited fabulous wealth and became a pivotal modern art patron. Her galleries in London and New York showcased major artists, shaping art history and influencing future generations.
Alan Turing
Alan Turing, a brilliant mathematician, cracked the Enigma code in WWII saving millions of lives and laid the foundation for modern computers.
Nikola Tesla
As a young engineer Nikola Tesla became fascinated with a new form of energy. He invented one of the first induction motors and came up with alternating current - the transmission system which powers our world.
Wilhelm Röntgen
Wilhelm Röntgen's accidental discovery of X-rays changed the future of medicine. Follow his journey from engineering student to Nobel Prize-winning physicist in this fascinating story.
Edwin Hubble
Edwin Hubble's discovery of galaxies beyond the Milky Way and the expanding universe transformed astronomy, laying groundwork for the Big Bang theory.
Michael Faraday
English self-taught scientist Michael Faraday revolutionized the world with his discoveries in electromagnetism. He invented the first electric motor, transformer, and generator, laying the foundation for modern electricity.
Galileo Galilei
Italian scientist Galileo Galilei challenged prevailing views with his discoveries in physics and astronomy, proving the laws of falling bodies and changing our view of the Solar System.
Dmitri Mendeleev
Dmitri Mendeleev, a brilliant Russian chemist, created the first Periodic Table in 1869. His innovative method grouped elements by weight and properties, laying the groundwork for modern chemistry.
Alessandro Volta
Italian inventor, Alessandro Volta, created the first electric battery. His work with metals and solutions produced continuous electric current, changing how we generate electricity.
Feminism
This is a timeline of events in the feminist movement beginning from 1399 to the present day, including the Seneca Falls convention, the suffrage movement and the activism of Malala Yousafzai. Feminism has been a powerful movement throughout history, advocating for equal rights and opportunities for woman.
The Fugitive Slave Act
The Fugitive Slave Act of 1850 gave the federal government new powers to capture and return escaped enslaved people, but its failures intensified divisions between Northern and Southern states.
The Transcontinental Railroad
The Transcontinental Railroad, completed in 1869, revolutionized coast-to-coast travel in the United States. But this progress came at a significant cost to Indigenous Peoples, impacting their lands and way of life.
What Does the Government Do?
The United States has a democratic government which is voted for by the people. Its job is to protect citizens and communities, and follow the rules that are laid out in the Constitution.
Being a Citizen of the U.S.
The word "citizen" can have more than one meaning, referring to both membership in a country and being an active, responsible part of a community.
Common Good
The common good is at the heart of all healthy communities, and is supported by community rules that promote fairness and safety for all.
Who Constructs History?
Historians, archaeologists, archivists and cartographers use primary sources, like diaries, tools, and maps, to unlock the secrets of the past and sort the fact from fiction.
How is History Constructed?
Historians are always finding new information from the past, in primary sources like letters, diaries, and government documents, which can change our understanding of historic events.
The Mayflower
The arrival of the Mayflower on the shores of Cape Cod in 1620 signaled the beginning of a new age of European colonization in North America. But why did the Pilgrims and Strangers want to migrate to the New World? Who were they? And what legacy did they leave?
Constitutional Foundations: Part One
In 1787, the Framers met in Philadelphia to revise the Articles of Confederation but instead crafted a new constitution, drawing on principles from ancient civilizations.
Transportation and Communication Innovations
Throughout the 1800s, innovations in transport and communication, from canals to the telegraph, bridged geographical distances and made it faster to move people, produce and post.
Leaders of the Civil War
The U.S. Civil War pitted friend against friend, neighbor against neighbor, in a bitter fight for the future of the nation. It also drove the country’s leaders apart. Their struggles are embodied by six men whose fates reflected the nation's continuing struggle for unity and progress.
Being a Citizen in a Community
One meaning of the word citizen is a person who lives in a community. In this video, learn about how good citizens make their communities better for everyone.
The French and Indian War
The French and Indian War was a bloody struggle between Britain and France for control over North America. It created the conditions for the American Revolution.
Explorers: Coming to North America
An explorer is someone who travels to places they have not been to before, to learn about them. In this video, meet the explorers who came to the place we now call the United States.
Historic North America
Prehistory – the time before we had written records – is filled with many unanswered questions. But by studying old objects, like tools and bones, scientists have found clues about North America's earliest inhabitants.
Eleanor Roosevelt
Eleanor Roosevelt is often remembered as one of the most inspiring First Ladies in U.S. history. In this video, learn about how she used her role to make a difference.
Let it Stream
Too many anxious thoughts? Imagine sending them one by one on a leaf down a stream - a proven ‘Mood Tool’ that helps adolescents manage BIG feelings.
Branches of Government
The U.S. government divides power between the Legislative, Executive, and Judiciary branches to ensure fairness and prevent any one group from becoming too powerful.
The Roaring 20s
The Roaring 20s was a decade of extremes in the United States, as the country slowly moved from boom to bust. So how did an era of peace and prosperity end with the Great Depression?
Doorway Affirmations
‘Today is going to be a good day.’ ‘I am strong and resilient.’ Self affirmations are so powerful for boosting self esteem. Imagine saying one everytime you walk through a doorframe!  Check out this Mood Tool.
The Townshend Acts
The Townshend Acts of 1767-68 imposed heavy taxes on American colonists, sparking widespread protests and setting the stage for the American Revolution.
The Indian Appropriation Acts
The Appropriations Acts of 1851 and 1871 led to the creation of government-run boarding schools, where hundreds of thousands of Indigenous children were forcibly assimilated into White society.
William Jennings Bryan
Secretary of State William Jennings Bryan shaped early 20th-century U.S. politics with his advocacy for the common man and progressive policies.
The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo
The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo in 1848 transferred 55% of Mexican territory to the U.S., and ignited a fierce debate over slavery in these new lands.
The Gettysburg Address
President Abraham Lincoln's Gettysburg Address redefined the Civil War, emphasizing democracy and equality, and remains a cornerstone of American ideals.
The Temperance Movement
The Temperance Movement first emerged in the United States in the early 1800s. It played a pivotal role in the prohibition of alcohol across the country.
Boston Massacre
Tensions between colonists and Great Britain exploded with the Boston Massacre of 1770. The deaths of five men, alongside John Adams’ landmark defense of the British soldiers, helped sow the seeds of rebellion across the colonies.
Women in the Colonies
Life for women in the Thirteen Colonies varied hugely depending on religion, ethnicity and location. Explore the day to day lives of Puritans, Quakers, indentured servants and enslaved women in Colonial North America.
Territorial Expansion of the United States
Since its birth, the United States has acquired new territories through purchase, conflict and annexation. New territories ensured the country’s growth, but often at the expense of Indigenous peoples.
Kansas-Nebraska Act
The Kansas-Nebraska Act of 1854 allowed territories to decide on slavery through popular sovereignty, escalating tensions that led to the Civil War.
Levels of Government
In the United States, federal, state, and local governments work together to run the country. Find out the responsibilities of each level of government.
Forehead Infinity
A sure way to calm down is to gently and repeatedly trace an infinity symbol on your forehead. Check out how.
Thought Bubbles
Overwhelmed by negative feelings? Try this fun Mood Tool utilizing bubbles to float your cares away.
Butterfly Tapping
Does the world feel scary? Try Butterfly Tapping. It’s easy! Just link your thumbs and tap each hand to your chest - a proven way to calm down. This animated video is a great illustration of this Mood Tool.
Own It
Feeling guilty or regretful? A great way to feel better is to Own it! This Mood tool shows you how.
Zoom Out
Obsessing about a problem? Try to Zoom out to 3 days, 3 weeks and 3 months. Likely the problem will be a distant memory! Take a look at this 1-minute music video highlighting this helpful Mood Tool.
Just Move
Stuck in a bad mood? Looking for great strategy that helps? Get up and Move! Check out this entertaining and informative 1-minute video demonstrating this helpful Mood Tool.
Get Back to Nature!
Feeling trapped? Time to engage with Nature! Touch a tree, root your feet into the grass...this Mood Tool does the trick!
ASMR
Feeling anxious and distracted? Watch and listen to learn about ASMR - an auditory stimuli experience that’s been proven to calm anxiety and create positivity and relaxation.
Recombobulation Station
Need to recharge? Create a comfy, cozy 'Recombobulation Station' to recharge and reset - a proven MOOD tool that works to destress,
Calm Down With Color
Life feeling dark and a little out of control? Here’s an engaging video illustrating a Mood Tool to help ground you. Look around and identify color in the things around you. It really works!
Don't Mind Read!
Think you can KNOW what people are thinking?  You can’t! This Mood Tool shows us how to check the facts instead of making assumptions.
Don't Talk To Me That Way
Too much negative self talk? This creative video reminds us to talk to ourselves as we would a best friend. Be kinder and more compassionate.
Name It To Tame It
Angry, Sad, Lonely? Name it out loud to feel better - a proven ‘Mood Tool’ that helps kids manage BIG feelings.
The Tulsa Massacre
The 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre saw Greenwood, a prosperous African American community, devastated by racially motivated violence that left hundreds dead and a neighborhood in ruins.
Vaccination
Beginning with ancient Chinese variolation, advancements in vaccination have prevented the spread of disease and saved countless lives.
Hippocrates
Hippocrates, the Ancient Greek doctor who transformed medicine by applying scientific principles to diagnose and treat diseases, laying the foundation for modern medical practices.
Denim Jeans
Born from the need for durable workwear, denim jeans have evolved into a timeless fashion essential found in wardrobes around the world.
Directions
How do we get from A to B? Cardinal and intermediate directions are a tool in geography that help us navigate the world around us.
Plessy v. Ferguson
In 1892, Homer Plessy's arrest for sitting in a train car reserved for White passengers led to a Supreme Court decision that endorsed racial segregation under the "separate but equal" doctrine.
The Economic Impact of the American Revolution
The American Revolution cost lives, livelihoods and millions of dollars in cold, hard cash. So how did the fledgling United States generate funds, and what impact did the war have on the U.S. economy?
Keeping it Together
From medieval hook-and-eye fasteners to the invention of zips and velcro, uncover how new innovations have revolutionized convenience and functionality in fashion.
Battery
Alessandro Volta's invention of the voltaic pile in 1800, the world's first battery, revolutionized technology by providing a portable source of electric current, leading to further innovations in energy storage.
Money
Trace the evolution of money, from bartering goods to modern smart cards, and discover how currencies and methods of transaction have influenced global economies.
The First Great Migration
The Great Migration saw over a million African Americans relocate from the South to urban areas in the North, sparking significant cultural and social change.
Robert Boyle
Irish aristocrat Robert Boyle fundamentally changed chemistry with his air pump experiments, leading to the formulation of Boyle's Law on gas behavior.
Franklin, Crick and Watson
The combined efforts of Rosalind Franklin, Francis Crick, and James Watson led to the groundbreaking discovery of DNA's double helix structure in 1953.
Alexander Fleming
Alexander Fleming, a Scottish bacteriologist, discovered penicillin in 1928. This breakthrough antibiotic saved millions of lives and improved medical treatments for infections and diseases.
Carl Linnaeus
Swedish naturalist Carl Linnaeus transformed biology with his classification system, simplifying how plants and animals are named and grouped.
Francis Bacon
Lawyer turned politician turned scientist, Francis Bacon challenged traditional thought and influenced the founding of the Royal Society, advancing scientific practice.
Fibonacci
Italian mathematician Fibonacci introduced the Hindu-Arabic numeral system to Europe and developed the famous sequence that links mathematics to patterns in nature.
Archimedes
Archimedes, a mathematical genius from ancient Greece, pioneered methods in volume measurement and designed inventions that still impact the world today.
Antibiotics
The accidental discovery of penicillin by Alexander Fleming in 1928 revolutionized medicine by introducing the first mass-produced antibiotic, leading to effective treatments for numerous bacterial infections and viruses.
Microscope
Microscopes bring a miniscule world of wonders into focus. Zoom in on their evolution, from Hans and Zacharias Janssen’s early experimentations to today’s modern magnifiers.
Sports Shoes
The invention of vulcanized rubber in 1839 kickstarted a fashion revolution. Discover how rubber-soled sports shoes have evolved into the universally loved sneaker.
The Black Death
The deadly journey of the Black Death, a pandemic that devastated Europe and Asia in the 14th century and killed millions of people, altered societies and influenced future healthcare responses.
Alexander Destroys Persepolis
In 330 BCE, Macedonian king Alexander the Great avenged past Greek defeats by conquering Persepolis, the glittering capital of the mighty Persian Empire.
The Sacking of Rome
From its mythical founding by Romulus to its conquest by Odoacer, Rome's rise and fall is a tale of ambition, war, and change.
The Fall of the Berlin Wall
Trace the history of the Berlin Wall, from its construction in 1961 to prevent East Germans from fleeing to the West, to its dramatic fall in 1989, leading to Germany's reunification.
Plastic
In 1856, Alexander Parkes invented the world’s first semi-synthetic plastic, sparking a series of innovations that led to the creation of Bakelite, nylon, and modern bioplastics.
Refrigerator
The chilled history of refrigeration, from ancient ice storage techniques to modern eco-friendly fridges. Discover how this cool invention transformed food preservation and daily life.
The Statue of Liberty
The Statue of Liberty, a gift from France 150 years ago, stands as a powerful symbol of the American ideals of liberty and opportunity.
Wants and Needs
Everyone has wants and needs. Understanding the difference can help you to make sound choices that keep you healthy and safe.
Leadership
Leadership is a civic virtue that makes our communities stronger. Learn what it means to be a leader and how bringing people together can make the world a better place.
Veterans Day
Veterans Day, celebrated every November 11th, honors military veterans who served in the United States Armed Forces. It is a time for remembrance and gratitude.
Symbols
Explore the different symbols that represent the United States, including the Statue of Liberty, the US flag, the Bald Eagle and the Liberty Bell.
Independence Day
The Fourth of July marks the transformation of the 13 colonies into a free and independent United States.
Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
Explore the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., a leader who championed equality and changed American history through peaceful activism.
The Bald Eagle
The bald eagle is the United States’ national bird and a symbol of strength, freedom, and power that features on many government buildings, documents and even the one-dollar bill.
The White House
The White House, where every U.S. President has lived since John Adams, is a home, a workplace, a living museum and a symbol of American democracy known around the world.
Labor Day
Have you ever wondered who built all the buildings, roads, and bridges? They were all built by people - we call them workers. Once a year, we celebrate these workers on Labor Day.
Presidents’ Day
Learn about the origins of Presidents’ Day, a federal holiday dedicated to honoring George Washington and all U.S. Presidents.
Sacagawea
Indigenous interpreter Sacagawea was one the most important people in the early history of the United States. By drawing on her knowledge of the land, Lewis and Clark were able to explore and chart the Western frontier.
Indigenous Peoples: Treaties and Alliances
From the close of the Revolution to the eve of Civil War, the U.S. signed 368 treaties with various Indigenous nations. Many were not upheld, leading to decades of injustice and distrust.
The Texas Revolution
The Texas Revolution of 1835-36 saw American settlers rise up against the Mexican government to achieve their independence. The Republic of Texas stood as an independent nation for almost a decade.
Abolitionism
The American Anti-Slavery Society was the country's first major national abolitionist organization. Founded in 1833, it raised awareness of the atrocities of slavery - but as time went on, factions emerged within the group.
The Raid on Harpers Ferry
Abolitionist John Brown viewed the fight against slavery as a holy endeavor that could only be won through violence. His raid on Harpers Ferry was an attempt to spark a mass uprising of enslaved people across the South.
Rules & Laws
Rules and laws are special instructions that tell us what to do at home, at school and in our communities. They help to keep us safe and make society more fair.
The Rise of America's Industrial Titans
During the 19th century, leading industrialists like Cornelius Vanderbilt, Andrew Carnegie, and John D. Rockefeller helped transform the U.S. from an agricultural to an industrial powerhouse, but at significant cost to competition and workers’ rights.
George Washington: Leader of a New Nation
George Washington wasn’t just a military general – he was one of his era’s most astute political leaders. From learning his trade in the Virginia House of Burgesses, to establishing the role of President, he embodied the spirit of American democracy.
Rosa Parks
In 1955, Rosa Parks' refusal to give up her bus seat ignited a historic civil rights movement, and led to a U.S. Supreme Court decision that ruled racial segregation on buses to be unconstitutional.
Nat Turner’s Rebellion
Nat Turner’s Rebellion was the deadliest slave uprising in U.S. history. By shattering the illusory peace of the Southern states, it led to restrictive new laws that codified slavery across the U.S.
Workers in the Age of Industry
In the summer of 1892, steelworkers in Homestead, Pennsylvania went on strike after plans to cut pay were announced. The violence that followed was a pivotal moment in the struggle for workers’ rights in the United States.
The Battle of Little Bighorn
The Battle of the Little Bighorn, also known as Custer’s Last Stand, is one of the most iconic conflicts in U.S. history. A clash for control of Montana’s Black Hills typified the U.S. government’s willingness to displace Indigenous communities.
The Nez Perce War
The Nez Perce War of 1877, driven by forced relocations and treaty violations, marked a profound conflict between the U.S. government and Indigenous Nez Perce communities.
The Gilded Age
Between the 1870s and 1900s, the United States experienced a period of rapid economic growth. But beneath the shiny veneer of the Gilded Age lurked profound inequality and widespread want.
The Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire
In 1911, the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory in Manhattan went up in flames, killing 146 workers. The tragedy marked a pivotal moment in the fight for labor rights.
The Influenza Pandemic of 1918
The Influenza Pandemic of 1918-1919 claimed millions of lives across the globe. Known at the time as 'Spanish Flu', the first documented outbreak occurred at Camp Funston, Kansas.
The Seven Years' War
Fought between 1756 and 1763, the Seven Years' War was the first truly global conflict. In this video, learn about how the war reshaped power dynamics between Great Britain and France.
Expansion and Settlement of the United States
Today, the United States is home to more than 330 million people. In this video, learn about how the population has expanded and changed over time.
The Harlem Renaissance
The Harlem Renaissance was an unprecedented flourishing of African-American culture and creativity in 1920s New York. It fostered a newfound sense of Black pride and identity, which extended far beyond the confines of Harlem.
Honesty
Honesty is a civic virtue that helps make communities fairer and safer for everyone. In this video, learn about how you can show honesty in your community.
Shays' Rebellion
In the summer of 1786, the first major armed uprising in the newly formed United States began. Shays' Rebellion was a conflict over debt and taxes that would shake the foundations of the U.S. government.
The Battle of New Orleans
The Battle of New Orleans was the final major conflict of the War of 1812. It ended in an unlikely victory for the U.S over Great Britain, helping to foster a newfound sense of national pride.
The Economic Panic of 1873
The Panic of 1873, triggered by railroad bond failures, reshaped the economic, social and political landscape of the United States for generations.
The Slave Trade
The Triangular Trade was a complex system of human trafficking spanning three continents. Between the 16th and 19th centuries, it saw millions of Africans transported to the Americas.
The Assassination of President Lincoln
The assassination of Abraham Lincoln by John Wilkes Booth was part of a conspiracy to overthrow the U.S. government. Lincoln’s death united the nation in grief and set the stage for a tumultuous Reconstruction era.
The Indian Removal Act of 1830
The Indian Removal Act of 1830 led to the forced relocation of Indigenous Peoples from the fertile East to the arid West, marking a tragic chapter in U.S. history with the harrowing Trail of Tears.
The Reconstruction Acts
The Reconstruction Acts aimed to unify the United States after the Civil War by readmitting Southern states and addressing racial inequalities, but their impact was all too brief.
The Oklahoma Land Rush
The 1889 Oklahoma Land Rush triggered one of the largest migrations in U.S. history, as tens of thousands vied for new land, impacting Indigenous sovereignty and shaping the state.
15th Amendment
The 15th Amendment secured the voting rights for African American men, marking the culmination of progressive legislative changes during the Reconstruction era.
Revolutionary Riders
In 1775, American patriots rode out on horseback to spread the word that British troops were on the move. By mobilizing militiamen to rise up and fight, these brave messengers roused the colonies into rebellion.
Burning of Washington
In 1814, during the War of 1812, British forces attacked Washington D.C., burning the White House and the Capitol, an act that galvanized American resilience.
Indigenous Peoples in North America: East
Indigenous Peoples have thrived across the eastern portion of present day United States for more than 10,000 years, forming hundreds of distinct cultures and Nations. In this video learn about the Wampanoag, Anishinaabeg, and Cherokee Nations.
Indigenous Peoples in North America: West
Indigenous Peoples have thrived across the western portion of present day United States for more than 10,000 years, forming hundreds of distinct cultures and Nations. In this video, learn about the Inuit, Chinook, and Pueblo Nations.
Caesar Takes Rome
Julius Caesar, a formidable general and politician, crossed the Rubicon River in 49 BCE, defying the Roman Senate and setting in motion events that ended the Republic and led to his dictatorship.
First Art
From the Sulawesi cave drawings in Indonesia to the Lion Man of Hohlenstein Stadel in Germany, ancient art, dating back up to 40,000 years, showcases early human creativity and its role in education and decoration.
Light bulb
From Humphry Davy's first electric light in 1809 to modern LED technology, light bulbs have evolved to provide an efficient, safe and effective way to light up the world.
Summarizing Nonfiction Texts
Nonfiction texts can be complex and dense. But anyone can summarize their contents by following four simple steps. It’s as easy as explaining what you have read to a friend.
Economies of the 13 British Colonies
The 13 British colonies used their diverse regions and resources for trade, leading to prosperity, but ultimately tensions with Britain contributed to the American quest for independence.
New England Colonies
What was life like in the New England Colonies? Explore the transformation of New England from a harsh Pilgrim settlement to a revolutionary hotbed, encompassing conflict, cooperation and the quest for freedom.
Maryam Mirzakhani
This Rebel Girl was a problem solver. One of the greatest mathematicians of her generation, who calculated a way for women to break into a male-dominated field. We explore who Maryam Mirzakhani was. Based on the best-selling book series 'Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls'.
The Southern Colonies
What was life like in the Southern Colonies? Explore this region’s unique history, from the founding of Jamestown to their complex social, political and economic legacy.
Map Types
Discover three main types of maps – physical, political, and thematic – and learn how they uniquely represent our world's landscapes, boundaries, and various topics.
Causes of the War of 1812
The War of 1812 pitted the fledgling United States against Great Britain in a second war of independence. But what factors influenced Congress’ contentious decision to declare war in the first place?
Geography of the 13 Colonies
The European colonization of North America was largely influenced by geography. In the New England, Middle and Southern Colonies, the land and conditions varied. So how did settlers take advantage of their environments to establish the Thirteen Colonies?
The Navigation Acts
The Navigation Acts were a series of trade laws passed by the British Parliament in the 1600s. Learn about how they fuelled discontent in the Thirteen Colonies, setting the stage for the American Revolution.
Rivers
Learn about the longest rivers in the United States, and their roles in shaping the nation's landscape, culture, and history.
Bacon's Rebellion
Bacon's Rebellion, a violent conflict between Virginia's poor working class and wealthy elite, had far-reaching consequences in North America.
Jamestown
In 1607, settlers founded Jamestown, the first English colony in North America. Its emphasis on democracy influenced the founding principles of the United States.
Memorial Day
Every year on Memorial Day the country honors those who died while serving in the military. In this video, learn about how Memorial Day became a federal holiday.
Coming to the Colonies
Have you ever dreamed of moving to a new place? What might make you want to go? In this video, learn about what motivated settlers to travel to North America centuries ago.
Indigenous People before the 13 Colonies
Long before European settlers arrived in North America, the continent was richly populated by many different Indigenous Peoples. In this video, learn about the lives of these original inhabitants.
Rigoberta Menchú
This Rebel Girl stood up for the rights of women and the Mayan people. And shared her powerful story with the world. We explore who Rigoberta Menchú was. Based on the best-selling book series 'Goodnight Stories for Rebel Girls'.
U.S. Settlement: Growth and Conflict
The mid-1800s saw diverse groups moving into the American interior. While this fueled U.S. growth, it also displaced Indigenous peoples, whose struggles continue today.
13th Amendment
The Thirteenth Amendment abolished slavery in the United States in 1865. But it was just the beginning of a long fight for equality and civil rights.
Slavery in the United States: 1619-1820
Between 1619 and 1820, slavery shaped America, driving economic growth while deepening divisions between North and South, highlighting a stark contradiction in the nation’s ideals.
Mountains
From the Sierra Nevada to the Rockies, these natural giants were formed in different ways over thousands of years, making up the United States's iconic landscape.
The 14th Amendment
The 14th Amendment, ratified in 1868, redefined American liberty by ensuring citizenship rights, due process, and equal protection under the law, marking a pivotal shift during Reconstruction.
Perseverance
Perseverance is the ability to keep going, and not quit, even when it’s tough. From pioneering aviator Bessie Coleman to the everyday heroes in our communities, perseverance drives our world forward.
Map Key
Map keys help us understand maps by identifying what the symbols and colors mean. It also includes a scale so we can work out the distance between places, to help us find our way.
Columbian Exchange
The Columbian Exchange, a vast system of international trade, changed global commerce forever. Named after famous explorer Christopher Columbus, it reshaped diets, economies, and societies across continents.
Timeline Tutorial
A timeline is a tool that shows the order of events that happened in the past. In this video, learn how to use timelines and why they are important when studying history.
Empathy
Everyone can make the world a better place - by treating each other with empathy. In this video, learn why this civic virtue is important in a community.
Oceans
Discover Earth's five oceans – from the vast Pacific to the icy Southern Ocean – uncovering unique features, marine life, and geographic features like the Mid-Atlantic Ridge.
Continents
Take a trip around Earth’s seven continents and discover what makes them unique, from Asia's towering Mount Everest to the native wildlife of Australia to the frozen expanse of Antarctica.
The First Great Awakening
The First Great Awakening revived Christianity across the American colonies, introducing a new era of religious practice and community involvement.
French and Dutch Exploration in North America
European explorers like Columbus, Cartier, and Hudson claimed territories in the Americas for Spain, France, and the Netherlands, leading to European expansion at the expense of indigenous communities.
English Explorers
Explorers like John Cabot, Walter Raleigh and Sir Francis Drake played pivotal roles in England's exploration of North America, laying the foundations for settlements that would ultimately dispossess countless Indigenous Peoples.
Thomas Jefferson
Thomas Jefferson was the primary author of the Declaration of Independence, a Founding Father, and the third President of the United States. But he was also an enslaver whose life was marked by contradictions.
Fort McHenry
In 1812, the United States went to war with Great Britain. Again. So how did the defense of Baltimore’s Fort McHenry help to end the war, and instill an enduring sense of national pride among Americans?
Middle Colonies
What was life like in the Middle Colonies? Learn how this region of diverse cultures, fertile lands and significant historical events shaped America's early days and influenced its foundational principles.
What is History?
What is History and how do we study it? Explore the difference between primary and secondary sources, why it’s important to search for more than one source and why learning about our past can tell us more about our present.
Susan B. Anthony
At a time when women in the United States did not have the right to vote, Susan B. Anthony played a pivotal role in the women's suffrage movement.
Harriet Tubman
Discover the remarkable story of Harriet Tubman, who escaped slavery in 1849 and went to become a conductor on the Underground Railroad and a leading exponent of abolition and women’s rights.
Benjamin Franklin
A writer, an inventor and one of the Founders of the United States, discover Benjamin Franklin's remarkable journey from a printer's apprentice to the face of the $100 bill.
Constitution Day
On September 17, Americans celebrate Constitution Day. A federal holiday, Constitution Day commemorates the signing of the U.S. Constitution, a guiding document that continues to evolve and uphold the rights and freedoms of all U.S. citizens.
General Washington
What made George Washington such an inspirational military leader? Explore his remarkable journey, from a childhood on his family's Virginia plantation to his role as the Commander of the Continental Army,
The Stono Rebellion
Prior to the American Revolution, the Stono Rebellion of 1739 was the largest uprising of enslaved people in the thirteen colonies.
Colonial Williamsburg
A restored and reconstructed 18th century city, Colonial Williamsburg recreates many of the sights, sounds, and smells of colonial life. But what was its significance in revolutionary Virginia?
John Adams
Explore the life and legacy of John Adams, second President of the United States, and learn how he journeyed from the courtrooms of Boston to the highest office in the land.
Enslaved African Americans in the Revolution
At the time of the American Revolution, enslaved Africans made up a fifth of the population of the Thirteen Colonies. Though they were initially barred from taking part in the war, eventually thousands did. But what part did they play and what legacy did they leave?
Lexington & Concord
The Battle of Lexington and Concord was the first of the American Revolutionary War, famous for the “shot heard ‘round the world”. But how did it start, what happened during the battle and what impact did it have?
Europe and North America: 1620-1763
The period from 1620 to 1763 was a pivotal era that defined the relationship between Europe and North America. In this timeline video, learn how events in Europe influenced the colonization of North America and eventually solidified Great Britain’s hold on the Thirteen Colonies.
Battles of the American Revolution
In 1775, American Revolutionaries took up arms against British rule for control of the Thirteen colonies. Beginning with the Battle of Lexington and Concord, this timeline video traces the major encounters between both forces, from 1775 to 1781.
Latitude and Longitude
Discover how the grid system of latitude and longitude helps us to navigate and understand our planet's geography.
Missouri Compromise
The Missouri Compromise was designed to maintain a delicate balance of power in Congress between slave states and free states. But how did it come about, what did it mean and how did it contribute to the US Civil War?
The War of 1812
The War of 1812 involved critical battles and events that shaped American history, from the burning of Washington, D.C., to the writing of "The Star-Spangled Banner."
U.S. Regions
Explore the diverse landscapes and climates of the United States’ five geographic regions and discover the unique characteristics that define each area.
Articles of Confederation
The Articles of Confederation created the United States' first government. This foundational document paved the way for the development of a more unified and powerful federal system, under the U.S. Constitution.
Constitutional Convention
From the Albany Congress to the Constitutional Convention of 1787, this timeline explores the critical events that shaped the creation of the United States Constitution.
The Treaty of Paris
In 1783, the Treaty of Paris formally ended the American Revolution. This historic document secured American independence but failed to address important issues that would lead to future divisions.
Landforms
Landforms are natural features on Earth's surface. They come in all shapes and sizes. In this video, learn about the different landforms found in the United States.
U.S. Landmarks
There are two different kinds of landmark: natural and man-made. Let's explore some of the most well-known examples in the United States.
History of the American Flag
The American Flag is a symbol of the United States of America. Let’s explore what it means, what it’s called, and the rules for how we should treat it.
Slavery in the Colonies
Liberty is a founding principle of the United States, but many of the people who helped build the North American colonies were not free. The resilience of enslaved people and their contributions to what would become the United States cannot be erased from history.
Bill of Rights
Ratified in 1791, The Bill of Rights is recognised as a cornerstone of American democracy. In this video, learn about why it was created and what rights it grants citizens.
The Early Executive Branch
As Chief Executive of the Executive Branch of government, the US President has immense power and authority. Power that comes primarily from the Constitution and the traditions set by our first four Presidents.
Declaration of Independence
The Declaration of Independence is one of the most important documents in history. But why was it written, what did it say and what impact did it have?
James Madison
James Madison is known as the “Father of the Constitution” – but he was so much more than that. As author of the Virginia Plan and the Bill of Rights, his political genius proved vital in the founding of our nation.
Use Your Senses 5,4,3,2,1
Heart pounding, chest tight? This relatable animation illustrates a Mood Tool that shows how to calm down by looking for 5 things you can see, 4 things you can touch, 3 things you can hear, 2 things you can smell, 1 thing you can taste!
Tighten, Hold, Relax
Mind racing? Calm down by tuning into your body, then tighten, hold and relax your muscle groups one at a time - a proven ‘Mood Tool’ that helps adolescents manage BIG feelings.
Just Breathe - Hand Breathing
Thoughts Racing? Try Hand Breathing - a proven ‘Mood Tool’ that helps kids manage BIG feelings.
Surf the Emotional Wave
Drowning in negative feelings? Try Emotion Surfing to ride out the feelings - a proven ‘Mood Tool’ that helps adolescents manage BIG feelings.
Chill Out With Ice
Feeling hot with intense emotion? Cool right down using Ice - a proven ‘Mood Tool’ that helps adolescents manage BIG feelings.
Catherine The Great
This Rebel girl overthrew her emperor husband to become Russia’s longest-reigning female ruler. And put her country on the map as one of the greatest nations in Europe. We explore who Catherine the Great was. Based on the best-selling book series 'Goodnight Stories for Rebel Girls'.
Framers of the Constitution
In 1787, during the Constitutional Convention, 55 men were in attendance as the U.S. Constitution was created. But who were they, what values did they share and what factors influenced the decisions they made?
Pilgrims
English settlers known as the Pilgrims founded the first permanent English settlement in North America, the Plymouth Colony.
Martin Luther
Martin Luther was a German priest who believed that the Roman Catholic Church had become corrupt. When he published his complaints, they spread all over Europe, and split Christianity in two.
Telescope
Explore how telescopes evolved from Hans Lippershey's first design to today's advanced space observatories, revealing the universe's mysteries.
Flushing Toilet
Discover how flushing toilets evolved from ancient sanitation practices to advanced designs that dramatically improved public health and hygiene.
Internet
Discover how the invention of ARPANET evolved into today's internet, revolutionizing global communication and access to information.
Napoleon Bonaparte
Napoleon Bonaparte proved himself as a young army officer in the French Revolution. He soon became the Emperor of France, and in just eight years, conquered nearly all of Europe. However, he suffered a disastrous defeat invading Russia in 1812 and only a few years later, he finally met his match at the Battle of Waterloo and was sent into exile permanently where he died in 1821.
Mikhail Gorbachev
Mikhail Gorbachev became President of the USSR in 1988, at a time when the nation’s economy was in a mess. He brought in reforms, and opened up talks with the West - bringing about a lot more change than he planned for.
Genghis Khan
Genghis Khan united the Mongol tribes and forged the largest connected empire in history, marked by military brilliance, religious tolerance, and significant cultural contributions.
Spanish Exploration in North America
Spanish Conquistadors, from Columbus to Cortés, reshaped the Americas, immensely impacting Indigenous communities and laying the groundwork for today's nations.
The Stamp Act
The Stamp Act of 1765 imposed the first direct British tax on American colonists, igniting widespread protest and setting the stage for rebellion.
Treaty of Ghent
The War of 1812, between the United States and Great Britain, ended with the Treaty of Ghent. This historic agreement, negotiated in Belgium over five months, proved that the U.S. could achieve its aims through diplomacy.
The Panic of 1819
The Panic of 1819, triggered by land speculation, reduced exports and a cutback in credit, led to America's first major financial crisis and reshaped its economic policies.
Constitutional Compromise
In 1787, the United States government began a series of critical compromises that led to the creation of the U.S. Constitution, but also ensured African American enslavement for generations to come.
The Expedition of Lewis & Clark
In the early 1800s, explorers Lewis and Clark set out to chart the American West. The Corps of Discovery kick-started decades of Western expansion, at significant cost to Indigenous communities.
The Impact of the Civil War
On April 12, 1861, Confederate forces attacked Fort Sumter, South Carolina, marking the explosive start of the Civil War. The conflict led to short-lived progress and long-term struggles for true racial equality.
The History of Federal Banking
Discover the turbulent story behind the creation of the United States national banks, in which all three branches of the federal government combined to safeguard the nation's economic stability.
The Coercive Acts
Learn how Britain's Coercive Acts, aimed at punishing Massachusetts for the Boston Tea Party, encouraged rebellion in the Thirteen Colonies.
Juneteenth
Every year on June 19th, the United States celebrates the end of slavery. In this video, learn about the history and meaning of Juneteenth.
Benjamin Franklin
Benjamin Franklin may be the most famous American politician who never ran for president. In this film, learn about his life and legacy.
Bleeding Kansas
In the 1850s, the newly established territory of Kansas descended into chaos – as pro and anti-slavery activists attempted to influence its admittance to the Union. Bleeding Kansas was a precursor to the Civil War.
The End of the Revolutionary War
What did the United States look like after the Revolution? Discover how economic, governmental and social challenges in the post-war period led to lasting reforms that fulfilled the promise of independence.
The XYZ Affair
The controversial XYZ Affair escalated tensions between the U.S. and France in the 1700s, leading to naval confrontations at sea and a crisis of democracy in the United States.
Branches of Government
In 1787, the founders agreed to replace the Articles of Confederation with a new system of government. The Constitution divided power between the Legislature, the Executive, and the Judiciary, each with its own roles and responsibilities.
The Mayflower Compact
In September 1620, a group of colonists left England to make a new life. By the time they reached North America, they had written the Mayflower Compact: a document that would lay the groundwork for democracy in the U.S.
Maya Angelou
This Rebel Girl changed the world with her words. An American writer who dazzled audiences with poems and stories about her life. And helped fight for the rights of Black people. We explore who Maya Angelou was. Based on the best-selling books 'Goodnight Stories for Rebel Girls'.
Abolishing Apartheid
Starting in 1948, apartheid imposed severe racial segregation in South Africa. Black South Africans, led by groups like the ANC and figures like Nelson Mandela, protested through the decades, leading to the system's end and Mandela's presidency in 1994.
First Tools
Discover how early humans handcrafted tools from rock and flint, and used fire to overcome the challenges of the prehistoric world, marking the beginnings of technology.
Civic Virtues
The world is filled with people who make our communities happier, safer, and fairer for everyone. These people have good qualities like kindness, courage, and respect, known as civic virtues.
The American Revolution
The American Revolution saw the Thirteen Colonies rise up against Great Britain to become independent. But what were the causes of the rebellion and how did it end?
The Early Judicial Branch
The U.S. Constitution established the Judicial Branch of government, outlining its foundational structure, and over time, its role and responsibilities have evolved through legal precedents and Acts of Congress.
Spatial Understanding and Perspective
Spatial understanding is our ability to know we you are in relation to other places. Someone’s own spatial understanding is called their perspective. These skills help us navigate the world around us.
Justice
Justice is a founding principle of the United States. Learn what justice is and why it’s important to treat everyone with fairness.
Metacom's Resistance: King Philip's War
After decades of peace between New England settlers and the Wampanoag, tensions over land and sovereignty erupted into conflict. King Philip’s War, named after a Wampanoag chief, would shift the balance of power decisively to the settlers.
Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving is one of the most well-known American holidays. But how did it come about? And how is it perceived by different communities today?
Massachusetts Bay Colony
In 1630, around 1,000 Puritans left England behind for a new start in the New World. Against all odds, they managed to make a success of the Massachusetts Bay Colony. But how did they do it and what impact did it have on our nation?
Thomas Paine
Thomas Paine's visionary writings, advocating freedom and democracy, were instrumental in shaping the United States' fight for independence. Explore his remarkable journey, from campaigning for higher pay as a tax collector in England, to inspiring the US and French revolutions.
Mae Jemison
This Rebel Girl reached for the stars. A scientist who became the first African-American woman to travel into space. We explore who Mae Jemison is. Based on the best-selling book series 'Goodnight Stories for Rebel Girls'.
Franz Ferdinand Assasinated
The assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand, heir to the throne of Austria-Hungary, in 1914, ignited the first global war. The conflict reshaped nations and cost millions of lives.
Aztecs and Incas Defeated
In the 15th and 16th centuries, Spanish conquistadors, armed with advanced weapons and driven by tales of riches, overthrew the mighty Aztec and Inca civilizations, reshaping the Americas forever.
The Siege of Vienna
In 1529, Suleiman the Magnificent's failed siege of Vienna marked a turning point for the Ottoman Empire, revealing its limitations and foreshadowing its slow decline.
The Battle of Hastings
The Battle of Hastings took place in England in 1066. Ending in victory for William of Normandy, this monumental conflict reshaped the course of English history.
Newton's Law of Motion
Isaac Newton revolutionized science with his laws of motion, explaining forces like gravity and how these forces effect the movement of bodies or objects. In doing so, he laid the foundation for technological advances like space travel.
Building The Great Wall
Built over centuries, the Great Wall of China was a monumental effort to protect and unite the ancient Chinese empire.
The First Skyscraper
Architect William Le Baron Jenney's design for the Home Insurance Building in 1885 was inspired by the strength of a birdcage, and was the first of its kind. He pioneered the construction of skyscrapers which transformed urban landscapes forever.
The Long March
The Long March was a crucial 12-month trek across harsh Chinese terrain by the Red Army, pivotal in securing Mao Zedong’s leadership and shaping communist China.
Independent India
Independent India emerged from British colonial rule which began with the East India Company in 1757. Mahatma Gandhi's peaceful protests catalyzed the independence movement in the 1920s. Post-World War II, divergent aspirations led to the 1947 partition into Hindu-majority India and Muslim-majority Pakistan, triggering massive migrations and significant violence.
Tasman's Voyages
Abel Tasman, a Dutch explorer, charted unknown territories in the Southern Hemisphere, marking the discovery of Tasmania and parts of the Australian coast in the 17th century.
The Fall of Constantinople
The Ottoman siege of Constantinople, and the city’s subsequent fall, forever altered the geopolitical landscape of Europe and beyond.
The Silk Road
The Silk Road, established around 130 BCE, was a crucial ancient trade network connecting East to West. It enabled the exchange of commodities, such as silk, alongside ideas and cultural practices between empires.
Charlemagne
Born as a Frankish prince in a fragmented Europe, Charlemagne unified France and served as the Pope’s protector - gaining the title of Holy Roman Emperor.
Eleanor Roosevelt
Eleanor Roosevelt is known as being the longest serving First Lady in all of American history. She spent her life working to further social causes, from women voting to universal human rights.
Sigmund Freud
Sigmund Freud transformed the way we think of the human mind. In his work as a doctor, who studied the mind, he invented the idea of the subconscious and tried to unlock the mysteries of dreams.
Aristotle
Aristotle’s way of describing the world changed the way we think and reason. He wrote about everything from biology to politics and the universe - applying a system of logic and observation which laid the groundwork for modern science.
Confucius
Confucius was a philosopher in ancient China who taught that the powerful needed to rule with virtue. He put his ideas into practice - changing the way the government was run, and eventually founding a religion called Confucianism.
Alfred Nobel
Alfred Nobel invented a better way to blow things up and became a successful industrialist. But he believed in peace and progress, and so he set up the world’s most important awards for achievement to humankind.
Albert Einstein
Albert Einstein is known as the father of modern physics. As a young man, he spent his time thinking about the nature of space and time. When he published his ideas, they changed the world - and gave us a whole new view of the universe!
Marco Polo
Marco Polo left his home as a young man in 1271, setting off on a voyage that took him to the heart of the Chinese Empire, and through many Asian countries. The book he wrote about his travels influenced Europeans' understanding of the world.
Christopher Columbus
Christopher Columbus was a master navigator who was convinced he could find a quicker route to Asia. His crossing of the Atlantic Ocean changed the world forever - but he didn’t find what he expected…
Artemisia Gentileschi
This Rebel Girl painted her way into the history books. By bringing a woman’s perspective to art. And becoming the most celebrated female painter of the 17th century. We explore who Artemisia Gentileschi was. Based on the best-selling books 'Goodnight Stories for Rebel Girls'.
Continental Congress
The Continental Congress was a groundbreaking collaboration between leaders of the Thirteen Colonies. This timeline charts its achievements, from the first assembly against British taxes to the formation of the United States under the Articles of Confederation.
The Seven Years' War
In 1756, Great Britain and France went to war for control of land, resources and global influence. The Seven Years’ War was the first truly global conflict, marked by major events across five continents.
The American Revolutionary Period
Follow the events leading up to, during and after the American Revolution, as the 13 colonies rise up against British rule to achieve their independence.
Europe and the American Revolution
The American Revolution wasn’t just a fight between American colonists and Great Britain. France, Spain, and the Netherlands backed the rebels through financial and military assistance.
Checks & Balances
In 1787, the framers of the Constitution met in Philadelphia to create a new form of government. The checks and balances that they wrote into law have distributed power evenly, between three branches of government, ever since.
Thomas Jefferson
Thomas Jefferson, Founding Father and third President of the United States, wrote that 'all men are created equal'. But did he live up to his famous words?
Courage
Courage is a civic virtue that makes our communities stronger. Learn what it means to be courageous and how facing your fears can help make the world a better place.
Nina Simone
This Rebel Girl was an icon of American music, a musician who used her talent to inspire others, writing songs of freedom and protest. We discover who Nina Simone was. Based on the best-selling books 'Goodnight Stories for Rebel Girls'.
Compass Rose
The compass rose is a key symbol on maps, globes and travel apps. It tells us which direction is North, South, East and West to help us find our way around the world.
Indigenous Peoples' Day
Indigenous Peoples' Day pays tribute to America's original inhabitants, honoring their rich cultures, languages, and significant contributions to the nation.
The Early Legislative Branch
Established in 1787, the U.S. Congress created its constitutional foundation and developed legislative processes to enact laws that reflect America's evolving needs.
Maps and Globes
Discover the differences between maps and globes, and how each helps us understand Earth's size, shape, and features.
Exploring the World
This is a timeline of the events in the history of the Age of Exploration from the early 1400s to 1521. During the 15th and 16th centuries, European explorers set sail to discover new lands, great riches and exotic goods, leading to the discovery of trade routes across the world and the first circumnavigation of the globe.
Place and Location
In geography, it's important to tell the difference between a place and a location. In this video, learn how.
Community Helpers
Learn about the important role that community helpers such as teachers, doctors, and firefighters play in our communities.
Historical Events: The American Revolution
Studying historical events can help us better understand the past and the present. In this video, learn about five events from the American Revolution.
Leaders of the Revolutionary War
The American Revolutionary War pitted determined colonists against an experienced British Army. Meet the military leaders who played pivotal roles on both sides.
Sophie Scholl
This Rebel Girl stood up for what she believed in. A brave resistance fighter who risked her life to speak the truth when others were too afraid. We explore who Sophie Scholl was. Based on the best-selling books 'Goodnight Stories for Rebel Girls'.
Respect
Respect is a civic virtue. Learn what it means to be respectful - and how treating others as you would like to be treated can help make the world a better place.
Reading a Map
Anyone can learn to read a map! Explore the essentials of map reading - including symbols, legends, and scales.
Land and Water
Discover Earth's physical features, from oceans to mountains, and learn how land and water form our planet's diverse landscapes.
The Albany Plan
Learn about Benjamin Franklin's revolutionary proposal for colonial unity, the Albany Plan of Union, and its lasting influence on the creation of the United States.
James Madison
James Madison is known as the “Father of the Constitution”. In this video for US students grades 3-5, we learn about Madison’s remarkable life, career and legacy.
Agatha Christie
This Rebel Girl’s perfectly plotted detective novels gripped her readers, and had everyone asking, ‘Whodunnit?’ We explore who Agatha Christie was. Based on the bestselling books 'Goodnight Stories for Rebel Girls'.
Karl Marx
Karl Marx was a writer who dreamed of a classless society. After he died, his work became widely shared as a political ideology called communism - and directly influenced the Russian Revolution.
Ruby Bridges
This Rebel Girl simply wanted to go to school. And by doing so taught America a lesson, paving the way for Civil Rights. We explore who Ruby Bridges is. Based on the bestselling books 'Goodnight Stories for Rebel Girls'.
Michelle Obama
This Rebel Girl is a fierce champion of young women, who held one of the highest positions in public office of any African-American woman before her - as First Lady of the United States. We explore who Michelle Obama is. Based on the bestselling books 'Goodnight Stories for Rebel Girls'.
Nefertiti
This Rebel girl was a mysterious queen who ruled Egypt. And disappeared without a trace. We find out who Nefertiti was. Based on the bestselling books 'Goodnight Stories for Rebel Girls'.
Ada Lovelace
This Rebel Girl was a mathematician and a digital pioneer, who programmed her way into the history books. We find out who Ada Lovelace was. Based on the bestselling books 'Goodnight Stories for Rebel Girls'.
Sappho
This Rebel girl was a revolutionary poet who lived in ancient Greece. And wrote about women, friendship and love in a way that had never been done before. We discover who Sappho was. Based on the bestselling series 'Goodnight Stories for Rebel Girls'.
Billie Jean King
This Rebel Girl smashed the patriarchy. One of the greatest women tennis players of all time, An American who turned women’s tennis into a pro sport and fought for equal pay. We discover who Billie Jean King was. Based on the bestselling books 'Goodnight Stories for Rebel Girls'.
Jane Austen
This Rebel Girl loved writing novels about women and marriage, society and manners, at a time when female authors were thoroughly disapproved of. And went on to become a literary superstar. We explore who Jane Austen was. Based on the bestselling books 'Goodnight Stories for Rebel Girls'.
Mary Shelley
This Rebel Girl took up the challenge to write a horror story to scare her friends, And ended up creating a novel that has terrified readers for generations. We explore who Mary Shelley was. Based on the best-selling book series 'Goodnight Stories for Rebel Girls'.
Beatrix Potter
This Rebel Girl captured our imaginations with her much-loved tales. An English writer who took matters into her own hands when no one would publish her stories, And went on to become one of the world's bestselling children’s authors. We explore who Beatrix Potter was. Based on the best-selling book series 'Goodnight Stories for Rebel Girls'.
Lilian Bland
For this Rebel Girl, the sky was the limit.An aviator who was determined to fly into the history books as the first woman to design, build and pilot her own plane. We explore who Lilian Bland was. Based on the best-selling book series 'Goodnight Stories for Rebel Girls'.
Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
This Rebel Girl wanted the world to read stories that were a true reflection of life in Nigeria. So she wrote her own stories about Africa which inspired a new generation of readers around the world. We explore who Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie is. Based on the best-selling book series 'Goodnight Stories for Rebel Girls'.
Mary Anning
This Rebel Girl dug her way into the history books. A dinosaur hunter whose fossil discoveries helped prove that there was life on Earth millions of years before the human race. So, who was Mary Anning?
Grace Hopper
This Rebel Girl wanted to know what made things tick. She turned a fascination with puzzles into a career in computer programming: then sailed into the history books as the oldest commissioned officer in the U.S. Navy. We explore who Grace Hopper was. Based on the best-selling book series 'Goodnight Stories for Rebel Girls'.
Queen Elizabeth I
This Rebel Girl never expected to be queen of England and Ireland. She came to the throne when she was just 25 years old; And ruled over one of the greatest periods in English history. We explore who Queen Elizabeth I was. Based on the best-selling book series 'Goodnight Stories for Rebel Girls'.
Boudicca
This Rebel Girl was a fearless warrior; Queen of an ancient British tribe called the Iceni, who spearheaded a rebellion against the Romans to protect her Kingdom. We explore who Boudicca was. Based on the best-selling book series 'Goodnight Stories for Rebel Girls'.
Florence Nightingale
This Rebel Girl revolutionized health care. A British Nurse whose work saved millions of lives, by the simple act of encouraging us to wash our hands. We discover who Florence Nightingale was. Based on the best-selling book series 'Goodnight Stories for Rebel Girls'.
Trade and Growth
Discover how international trade connects countries, promotes economic growth, and spreads innovative technologies for a better world.
Imports and Exports
Explore how countries trade goods like maple syrup and cars. Understand the journey of imports and exports and their impact on everyday life.
Specialization
Explore how specialization helps people and countries focus on specific skills or products, leading to better quality and efficiency, like Germany’s technology and Mexico's food produce.
Government
Explore how the government creates and maintains public goods and services like libraries and playparks that help shape our communities, funded by everyone for everyone's benefit.
Taxes
Discover how taxes contribute to creating and maintaining public goods like schools, parks, and roads, making our communities better places for everyone.
Market Structures
Explore how different types of market competition, like Perfect Competition, Oligopoly, and Monopoly, affect the games and products we love,
Economic Systems
Explore how economies work by looking at three economic systems: a Market Economy, a Traditional Economy, and a Command Economy.
Characteristics of Money
Explore the essential features of money, from durability to limited supply, that allow it to facilitate the exchange of goods and services effectively.
Types of Resources
The production of various items involves utilizing natural resources, human skills, and man-made tools, essential not only for making chocolate but also for constructing cities, homes, and manufacturing clothing.
Scarcity
Explore the concept of scarcity in economics and its profound effects on our daily lives. Learn how businesses, consumers, and governments navigate the challenge of limited resources and unlimited wants.
Agent Garbo
Juan Pujol García, a pacifist who became a crucial double agent during WWII, deceived Nazi Germany and aided the D-Day invasion.
Elizebeth Friedman
Elizebeth Friedman revolutionized American cryptology and played a crucial role in bringing down mobsters and spy rings in the 20th century.
Oleg Penkovsky
Oleg Penkovsky, a Soviet spy who switched allegiances to the West during the Cold War, helped to avert nuclear war during the Cuban Missile Crisis.
Operation Popeye
In 1967, during the Vietnam War, the U.S. launched a covert mission aimed to extend the monsoon season in Vietnam. Operation Popeye was the first military attempt to manipulate the weather.
Native Americans
Tracing the journey of Native Americans, this overview delves into their cultures, encounters with European settlers, enduring struggles, and ongoing efforts for rights and recognition.
Stuxnet
Stuxnet, a powerful cyber weapon used to disrupt Iran's nuclear advancements at the Natanz facility in 2010, marked a pivotal moment in the history of cyber warfare.
The People of Venezuela
Despite living in an oil rich country - the people of Venezuela have suffered economic collapse, poverty and political turmoil, forcing millions to flee their homeland.
The Rohingya People
The Rohingya people, described by the UN as the "most persecuted people in the world”, have faced decades of discrimination and violence in Myanmar, leading to mass displacement.
The People of Cuba
In the 20th century and beyond, tens of thousands of Cuban refugees have braved shark-infested waters for a chance at a new life in the United States. Understanding their reasons for leaving can inspire us to help.
What is a Refugee?
Learn about the challenges that refugees face when leaving their home countries, the international laws that protect them, and the resilience that enables them to contribute to society.
The People of Afghanistan
Learn about the Afghan Refugee Crisis and its roots in natural disasters, poverty, and political turmoil. Discover how millions of Afghans have been displaced, many of whom are women and children.
The People of Ukraine
Amidst a brutal invasion by Russia, over 10 million displaced Ukrainians persevere in their quest for safety, rebuilding lives through education and community support.
The People of Syria
The Syrian Refugee Crisis has seen over 11 million Syrians have been displaced from their homes as the result of a devastating civil war.
The People of Sudan and South Sudan
The separation of Sudan into two countries, and the enduring violent conflicts between political groups, has plunged the people of Sudan and South Sudan into a humanitarian crisis.
Supreme Court
Sitting at the pinnacle of the judicial branch of government, the U.S. Supreme Court is the highest court in the land. Its landmark rulings have had an enduring impact on American life and law.
Voting Rights Act of 1965
The Voting Rights Act of 1965 tackled voter suppression in the United States. While it significantly increased the registration of Black voters, it was not without controversy.
Emancipation Proclamation
Issued by U.S. President Abraham Lincoln almost three years into the Civil War, the Emancipation Proclamation played a crucial role in ending slavery across the United States and defining the principles that still govern the country today.
Federal and State Powers
The U.S. Constitution divides power between the federal government and states, granting specific national powers and reserving others to states via the 10th Amendment, with federal laws generally overriding state laws.
Constitution
The U.S. Constitution, drafted in 1787, established a strong federal government, outlining legislative, executive, and judicial branches, and remains the nation's supreme governing document.
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