Abraham Lincoln’s brief, powerful speech still resonates today. Find out more about the circumstances in which he delivered it.
Tag Archives: History
RACE: Are We So Different?
Despite apparent differences among people whose ancestors came from different part of the world, all humans can be traced back to a shared beginning. This interactive site explores our assumptions about the idea of race.
Secret of Photo 51
James Watson and Francis Crick were awarded the Nobel Prize for their discovery of the structure of DNA. One key to this discovery was a photograph taken using a revolutionary technique by the English scientist Rosalind Franklin. Explore this site to learn how Franklin made this stunning photograph and why she didn’t receive the credit she was due during her lifetime.
What Does It Mean to Cross the Rubicon?
Whether or not to cross the Rubicon was a decision that Roman governor Julius Caesar had to make. Watch the video to find out why his decision was momentous.
The First Writings
Voices from the past are still heard today in ancient writing. Learn why archaeologists changed their minds about the origins of writing after discovering tiny tablets in an Egyptian tomb.
Children on the Battlefield
How did younger boys get around the legal age limitations to join the army in the Civil War? What roles did the boys carry out when enlisted? How did they fit into camp life amongst the older soldiers, and what impact did the battleground have on these young lives?
Nelson Mandela on the Diary of Anne Frank
In this video footage broadcast in 1995, Nelson Mandela talks about how he identified with Anne Frank’s situation through reading her diary while imprisoned on Robben Island.
The Gold Rush of 1849
In the middle of the 19th century, the California Gold Rush transformed the country.
Jamestown Unearthed: Historic Jamestowne Opens Hands-On Archaeology to Guests
A new exhibit on Jamestown Island allows visitors to sift through archeological artifacts themselves and to view 3D printer technology that archeologists use to replicate the artifacts.
Just A Few Important Words About The Declaration Of Independence
Stephen Lucas, a professor of humanities, analyzes the language of the Declaration of Independence.
U.S. – Soviet Alliance, 1941–1945
They may have eyed each other with suspicion before and been sworn enemies after, but the United States and the Soviet Union found common ground during World War II, working together to defeat Nazi Germany.
Reverently and Defiantly, Czechs Honor Velvet Revolution’s Anniversary
In 1989, peaceful demonstrations toppled four decades of Communist rule in what was then Czechoslovakia. Twenty-five years later, the people of the democratic Czech Republic celebrated and reflected on this gentle revolution.
The American Civil War Then and Now
One hundred and fifty years after the Civil War, Guardian photographer David Levene photographed the battle sites. Here the photos are superimposed with images taken during the war. Accompanied with audio, they help visualize the reality of the war. Have you visited any of these sites or others?
Lincoln and Douglass Shared Uncommon Bond
In this interview, John Stauffer, author of the book Giants: The Parallel Lives of Frederick Douglass and Abraham LIncoln, discusses the two men’s friendship and their mutual respect for each other.
The Food that Fueled the American Revolution
Today we celebrate Independence Day with backyard barbecues of hot dogs and hamburgers, but the soldiers who fought for our freedom in the American Revolution got by on very little.
The Gunpowder Plot
In 1605, a group of Catholic conspirators frustrated by religious oppression plotted to assassinate King James in the hope of returning a Catholic leader to the throne. The plot was thwarted but is recalled annually on Guy Fawkes Day, an occasion for fireworks and bonfires in England.
An Oral History of the March on Washington
The March on Washington in August of 1963 was about more than Martin Luther King’s stirring “I Have a Dream” speech. Find out first-hand what went into organizing it and what the experience was like.
Lewis & Clark: The Journey of the Corps of Discovery
The 1803 Louisiana Purchase doubled the size of the young United States. It also opened a vast wilderness to American exploration, starting with the daring quest led by Meriwether Lewis and William Clark.
New Beginnings: Immigrant Women and the American Experience
Women immigrants have played a dynamic role in transforming America socially, politically, and economically.
Frederick Douglass’ Take on Independence Day
Listen to a discussion of Frederick Douglass’ famous speech which criticized the celebration of Independence Day celebrations in a time of slavery.