Contrary to what many may believe, the government is not what made America a superpower. America’s growth and prosperity began much like the nation did itself, with determined, innovative individuals brave enough to take a risk. Businesses are born out of a dream to achieve greatness, and greatness is not
Making an emotional connection to people and events in history helps students understand it better. In this World War II lesson, students will learn about the enormity of the undertaking of D-Day including its purpose, risks, sacrifices, and success. Students will read letters from soldiers who participated in the D-Day
The Cold War put rival economies to the test on the world stage with the thriving capitalism of the United States overpowering the failing communism of the Soviet Union. The United States, ready for the challenge, proved to be the superior force in what became known as the Space Race.
Many stories of those who made a difference in the course of American history go untold, or receive little acknowledgement. When learning about espionage of the American Revolution, and other time periods, it is not a topic just to gloss over a few facts and move on; rather, these stories
As students begin to learn about the growth of America as a superpower, it is important for them to know what made it possible. Among the many reasons America became so powerful is its roots in capitalism. Students should understand the origins of capitalism according to its founder Adam Smith
After the Civil War ended, Republicans were determined to secure the rights of the freedmen. The passage of the 13th, 14th, and 15th Amendments were landmark accomplishments in the fight for equal opportunity for African-Americans. Although the end of the Reconstruction Era would see severe challenges and limitations to the
The decision to support independence or not is one that students should empathize with by understanding the risks involved with either choice. Not enough time is given to learning about patriots, and not enough information is used when students do learn about them. The colonists identifying as a patriot or
There are many misconceptions about Japanese internment during WWII. In order to evade such misconceptions, students will read an interview between members of the Veteran’s History Project at the LOC and someone who experienced the internment, Warren Michio Tsuneishi. While his insight gives students a glimpse into the hardships of
Often overlooked in World War II is the struggle to fight Germany prior to U.S. entry and the perseverance of Winston Churchill to keep fighting in the face of near defeat. Churchill is an important person for students to know because of his ability to lead with strength, to speak
The liberation of Nazi concentration camps is often mentioned in the progression of World War II lessons, but it is rarely discussed in detail. It is important and right to recognize the American soldiers and our allies who took on the heart-wrenching duty of rescuing prisoners from concentration camps. The
