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The Past, Present, and Future

Knowing what the past, present, and future are helps young people understand how things always change with time, including themselves.

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What is Humility?

Humility is a civic virtue that helps to make our communities fairer, happier and stronger for everyone. Learn what humility means, what it looks like and how you can show humility too.

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Making a Choice

Everyday, people have to make choices. Understanding what’s important, and how to make decisions, teaches critical-thinking and problem-solving skills.

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The Second Red Scare

In the 1940s and 50s, Americans feared Communists had infiltrated the government, leading to a nationwide panic and re-evaluation about the balance between security and civil liberties.

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The Cuban Missile Crisis

In 1962, the United States discovered that the Soviets had installed nuclear warheads in Cuba, sparking an international crisis that impacted millions and was resolved through diplomacy.

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The Bay of Pigs Invasion

The Bay of Pigs Invasion of 1961, led by CIA-backed Cuban exiles, was a failed attempt to overthrow Fidel Castro’s Communist regime, marking a pivotal moment in U.S.-Cuba relations.

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Rights and Responsibilities

In a the United States, individual rights are protected by the Constitution, and are balanced with responsibilities that help society work together as a team.

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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.

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The Treaty of Paris 1898

The 1898 Treaty of Paris, which officially ended the Spanish-American War, marked the United States’ emergence as a global power, extending its influence into the Pacific and beyond.

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Black Rights and Reconstruction

After the Civil War, around 3.5 million African Americans were freed from slavery, but it was only through Black agency that they achieved the full rights of citizenship.

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The sinking of the RMS Lusitania by a German U-boat in 1915, and the United States’ firm response, demonstrated America's readiness to end its isolationism to defend innocent lives.

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The Rise of Manufacturing

Between the 1700s and the 1900s, the United States transitioned from an agricultural society into an industrial powerhouse, driven by innovations like the steam engine and the cotton gin.

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Isolationism and the Rise of Facism

In the early 20th century, as fascist regimes emerged across Europe and beyond, the United States adopted a policy of isolationism to protect American lives and economic interests.

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The Freedmen’s Bureau

During the Reconstruction era, the Freedmen's Bureau helped almost 4 million freed African Americans to integrate into Southern society through education, legal rights, and economic support.

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Ordering Events

Time measures how long events last. By dividing time into units such as seconds, minutes, and hours, children can more easily understand when things occur.

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The Treaty of Versailles

The Treaty of Versailles ended World War I, but was not ratified by the U.S. Congress, leading to significant future implications for American foreign policy.

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Lincoln's Stance on Slavery

Abraham Lincoln is known as the Great Emancipator, but he did not always believe that enslaved people should be free, as his evolving political speeches reveal.

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The League of Nations

Following World War I, U.S. President Woodrow Wilson championed the League of Nations, setting the stage for the eventual creation of the United Nations to prevent future conflicts.

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The Compromise of 1850

The Compromise of 1850 maintained the delicate balance of power between free and slave states, but ultimately led to a growing divide between North and South.

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The Emancipation Proclamation

The Emancipation Proclamation, an Executive Order issued by Abraham Lincoln in 1863, shifted the focus of the Civil War to preserve the Union and end slavery in rebellious states.

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The Purchase of Alaska

In 1867, the United States acquired Alaska from Russia for $7.2 million. While the US expanded its territory, the acquisition radically altered the lives of the indigenous people who inhabited Alaska for millennia.

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In 1848, James W. Marshall's discovery of gold in California ignited a massive migration, shaping the state's future and impacting its landscape and Indigenous population.

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The Rise of Populism

In the late 1800s, farmers in the United States formed the Populist Party to challenge Big Business and promote the interests of farmers and working class people, reshaping the political landscape for generations.

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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.

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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.

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The Second Industrial Revolution

From barbed wire to the automobile, key inventions between 1870 and 1900 revolutionized American farming, communication, entertainment, and transportation.

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Leaders of the Progressive Era

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.

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The California Missions

The California Missions are a long-lasting legacy of Spanish colonization in the Americans. Built to spread Catholicism among Indigenous communities, they still exist today.

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The Road to Women's Suffrage

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.

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The Impeachment of Andrew Johnson

Following the American Civil War, Andrew Johnson became the first U.S. President to be impeached, after clashing with Congress over his approach to Reconstruction.

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Civil War: Terms of Surrender

In 1865, a definitive Confederate defeat led to surrender terms crafted by Generals Lee and Grant, ending the Civil War and setting the stage for Reconstruction.

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Integrity is the ability to always do the right thing, even when no-one is watching. Wilma Mankiller exemplified integrity as the Cherokee Nation's first female Chief by always putting her people first.

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From earning money by washing cars, to volunteering in a community garden, working helps us to learn new skills and improve our communities.

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What is Scarcity?

Scarcity occurs when there isn't enough of something for everyone. It’s a common part of life but it teaches kids to make smart choices.

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Originally founded to support working-class interests, New York’s Tammany Hall became notorious for political corruption and greed, influencing key reforms in American governance.

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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?

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Causes of the Spanish-American War

Between 1895 and 1898, as Cuban revolutionaries fought for independence, a number of social, economic and political factors drove the United States and Spain to the brink of war.

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The Mexican-American War

The Mexican-American War saw the U.S. and Mexico fight over Texas between 1846 and 1848, leading to significant territorial changes and setting the stage for future conflicts.

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The Economic Impact of the Civil War

In the aftermath of the American Civil War, the United States faced a range of economic challenges, from rising inflation to integrating freed African-Americans into the workforce.

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The Dawes Act 1887

The Dawes Act of 1887 empowered the federal government to divide Indigenous lands into plots, leading to the displacement of thousands and the loss of Indigenous sovereignty.

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FDR’S First 100 Days

Franklin D. Roosevelt's first one hundred days as President redefined presidential action, with major legislation and executive orders aimed at combating the economic impact of the Great Depression.

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World War II and the Homefront

During World War II, Americans at home supported the war effort through rationing, Victory Gardens, and joining defense corps, showcasing national unity and sacrifice.

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The United Nations

From its roots in the Atlantic Charter to today's global efforts, the United Nations strives to prevent wars and aid the displaced, building on past lessons to maintain international peace.

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Voting is a crucial process in schools, communities and democratic countries, empowering citizens to make collective decisions in a fair and free way.

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Goods and Services

Goods and services fuel the economy by meeting people’s wants and needs through purchases and trades.

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Mapping the World

Flattening round objects, like the Earth, will always cause distortion, so mapmakers have come up with ingenious solutions to reduce distortion and help us get from A to B.

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Restoring the Union

After the Civil War, the U.S. government began the process of readmitting rebellious states. In this video, learn about how Congress came to implement the Reconstruction Act.

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The Berlin Airlift

The Berlin Airlift of 1948-49 overcame the Soviet blockade of Allied-controlled West Berlin and demonstrated that democratic nations could combat the spread of Communism by working together.

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African Americans and Indigenous Peoples in the U.S. Civil War

The American Civil War wasn’t just a fight between North and South, it also involved Indigenous Peoples and African Americans, whose motivations for joining the fight had contrasting results.

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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.

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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.

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In the summer of 1919, racial tensions erupted into violence across the United States, as African American veterans and communities stood up against racial oppression to fight for fairness and justice.

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Women in the Civil War

During the American Civil War, women defied gender norms by managing homesteads, serving as nurses, and even spying, significantly impacting the war's course.

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Money helps people, businesses and countries to buy what they want and need. In this video, learn about how money is used, and why it is important.

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Women in the Revolutionary War

Women in the Revolutionary War did more than manage the homefront – they spied, wrote influential works, and fought for future rights.

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The Federal Government

The U.S. federal government is responsible for looking after the wants and needs of the country as a whole. It may be based in Washington, DC, but its influence is felt right across the nation.

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Lewis and Clark

In the early 1800s, Meriweather Lewis and William Clark charted the vast Louisiana Territory, providing the first maps and detailed documentation of its geography, plants, animals, and Indigenous populations.

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The Civil Rights Act of 1875

The Civil Rights Act of 1875 aimed to protect the rights of African Americans, but was struck down in 1883, paving the way for racial segregation across the South.

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The Chinese Exclusion Act

The Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882 barred Chinese immigration into the United States, the first time the U.S. government had barred an ethnic group, leading to decades of injustice.

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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?

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Checks and Balances

The U.S. Constitution ensures no part of the government has too much power through a system called checks and balances.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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The common good is at the heart of all healthy communities, and is supported by community rules that promote fairness and safety for all.

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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.

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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?

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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The Gettysburg Address

President Abraham Lincoln's Gettysburg Address redefined the Civil War, emphasizing democracy and equality, and remains a cornerstone of American ideals.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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?

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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.

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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.

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Wants and Needs

Everyone has wants and needs. Understanding the difference can help you to make sound choices that keep you healthy and safe.

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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.

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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.

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Explore the different symbols that represent the United States, including the Statue of Liberty, the US flag, the Bald Eagle and the Liberty Bell.

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Independence Day

The Fourth of July marks the transformation of the 13 colonies into a free and independent United States.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Presidents’ Day

Learn about the origins of Presidents’ Day, a federal holiday dedicated to honoring George Washington and all U.S. Presidents.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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The 15th Amendment secured the voting rights for African American men, marking the culmination of progressive legislative changes during the Reconstruction era.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Discover three main types of maps – physical, political, and thematic – and learn how they uniquely represent our world's landscapes, boundaries, and various topics.

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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?

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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?

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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.

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Learn about the longest rivers in the United States, and their roles in shaping the nation's landscape, culture, and history.

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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.

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In 1607, settlers founded Jamestown, the first English colony in North America. Its emphasis on democracy influenced the founding principles of the United States.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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The First Great Awakening

The First Great Awakening revived Christianity across the American colonies, introducing a new era of religious practice and community involvement.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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?

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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,

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The Stono Rebellion

Prior to the American Revolution, the Stono Rebellion of 1739 was the largest uprising of enslaved people in the thirteen colonies.

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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?

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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.

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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?

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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?

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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.

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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.

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Latitude and Longitude

Discover how the grid system of latitude and longitude helps us to navigate and understand our planet's geography.

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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?

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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."

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Explore the diverse landscapes and climates of the United States’ five geographic regions and discover the unique characteristics that define each area.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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?

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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.

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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?

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English settlers known as the Pilgrims founded the first permanent English settlement in North America, the Plymouth Colony.

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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.

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The Stamp Act of 1765 imposed the first direct British tax on American colonists, igniting widespread protest and setting the stage for rebellion.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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The Coercive Acts

Learn how Britain's Coercive Acts, aimed at punishing Massachusetts for the Boston Tea Party, encouraged rebellion in the Thirteen Colonies.

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Every year on June 19th, the United States celebrates the end of slavery. In this video, learn about the history and meaning of Juneteenth.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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?

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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.

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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.

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Justice is a founding principle of the United States. Learn what justice is and why it’s important to treat everyone with fairness.

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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.

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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?

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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?

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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?

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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.

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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.

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Indigenous Peoples' Day

Indigenous Peoples' Day pays tribute to America's original inhabitants, honoring their rich cultures, languages, and significant contributions to the nation.

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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.

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Maps and Globes

Discover the differences between maps and globes, and how each helps us understand Earth's size, shape, and features.

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Place and Location

In geography, it's important to tell the difference between a place and a location. In this video, learn how.

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Community Helpers

Learn about the important role that community helpers such as teachers, doctors, and firefighters play in our communities.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Anyone can learn to read a map! Explore the essentials of map reading - including symbols, legends, and scales.

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Discover Earth's physical features, from oceans to mountains, and learn how land and water form our planet's diverse landscapes.

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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.

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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.

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