Some of the words and phrases we use everyday were invented by Shakespeare! Learn about the history of these words and the plays that debuted them.
Tag Archives: History
Suited to Lead: New Exhibit Highlights Historical Fashion Choices of Presidents
Many of our US presidents knew how to dress for success! Learn about a new exhibit that examines the fashion and style of historic presidents.
Lincoln Issues Preliminary Emancipation Proclamation
You’ve probably heard of the Emancipation Proclamation, but do you know which events led to its creation? Learn about the history behind this influential document.
A lock of hair may have just changed what we know about life in the Incan Empire
Khipu, a system of record-keeping invented by the Inca Empire, uses a series of knots tied into fiber to record information. Learn more about khipus and what they can tell us about Incan society.
Windermere Children memorial garden unveiled
Learn about the Windermere Children and the new lives they created in the wake of tragedy.
‘Voices of Women’ exhibit honors local suffrage movement
| Deciding what to do with your future wasn’t so easy for women over 100 years ago. Learn about the women who refused to accept that, choosing to organize, march, and change history instead. |
The Legend of Halloween
Halloween is a celebrated each year on October 31. The tradition originated with the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain, when people would light bonfires and wear costumes to ward off ghosts. Learn more about the myths and legends surrounding this festival of frights by clicking this link.
Ireland: The Home of Halloween Traditions
The historical roots of Halloween date back to the Celtic celebration of Samwain (pronounced “sow-in” or “sah-win”). In modern times, Ireland plays host to some of the largest Halloween parties in the world, including a massive three-day festival in Derry and a Púca Festival in the towns of Trim and Athboy (a púca, or pooka, is a mischievous, shapeshifting spirit). Follow this link to learn more.
Music in the Revolutionary War
This article describes how music was used to signal and entertain soldiers during the American Revolution, including General Washington himself.
How the US Civil War Inspired Women to Enter Nursing
What does the history of nursing have to do with the American Civil War? Learn how a demand for nurses during the war led to women revolutionizing the field of modern medicine.
Anne Frank: Her Life, Her Diary, Her Legacy
View and read this photo gallery for a timeline of Anne Frank’s life and the historic events that shaped it.
Seven Places to Get Outside This Summer– and the Environmental Heroes to Thank for Them
During these isolating times, outdoor areas can offer a safe space to explore while practicing social distancing and taking proper safety precautions. Skim the article and choose two locations to learn more about.
History of the Plymouth Colony
Read the article to learn more about how Plymouth Colony came to be and what life was like for the Pilgrims who made the journey from Europe.
Fourth of July – Independence Day
Next month, millions of people across the nation will celebrate Independence Day. Have you ever wondered about the history of the holiday, or what celebrations in the past must’ve looked like?
The Historical Legacy of Juneteenth
Juneteenth, celebrated on the 19th of June, is a federal holiday that recognizes the emancipation of enslaved people in the United States. Read more about the history and significance of this national holiday.
More than a century after their land was ravaged by the California gold rush, Yurok Tribe to reclaim territory
| After nearly 200 years of loss, destruction, and survival, the Yurok people are reclaiming a piece of their homeland. This historic return isn’t just about the past, it’s about building a future where Native wisdom leads the way in protecting our planet. |
How Freedom Summer activists brought the Free Speech Movement to Berkeley
| When UC Berkeley tried to silence students advocating for civil rights and against the Vietnam War, young activists refused to back down. One of them, Mario Savio, delivered a fiery speech that lit a spark across the nation. |
Anne Frank’s hidden home, now in Manhattan
This exhibit recreates the Annex where Anne Frank took refuge and wrote down her thoughts, introducing her story to a new generation of readers.
Texas Freedom Colonies Project Atlas & Study
Freedom colonies, or towns established by formerly enslaved people, are an important part of Texas history. Read about how this history is being documented and remembered today!
USPS to Issue Stamps of Historic Battlefields of the American Revolution
To honor the 250th anniversary of the Battle of Lexington and Concord, a new series of postage stamps will be released, each depicting an important moment in the American Revolutionary War.