Alexander Hamilton, Founding Father and Broadway star, clashed with Thomas Jefferson politically and morally. But both figures were essential to the founding of the United States of America. Check out this page for resources on Jefferson, Hamilton, and other main players from the Broadway musical “Hamilton: An American Musical.”
Thomas Jefferson and Slavery
Thomas Jefferson, the man who wrote the famous line “all men are created equal,” was a life-long slave-owner. Over the course of his life, he would own 600 human beings, and at any given time there would be roughly 100 slaves living and working on and around Jefferson’s plantation and farms. This handout describes Thomas Jefferson’s views on slavery.
Timeline of Thomas Jefferson’s Life
This resource is a timeline of the private and public events in Thomas Jefferson’s life, including his election to the House of Burgesses and death of his mother.
Brief Biography of Thomas Jefferson
This resource is an abbreviated biography of Thomas Jefferson’s life. It includes informative videos and links to other interactive resources.
Magna Carta: Relevance for the 21st Century
Learn about the relevance of Magna Carta today and the importance of being an engaged citizen in this video from the ABOTA Foundation and PBS Learning Media. Includes video, background essay and teaching guide!
Magna Carta: Justification for American Independence
Explore how the principles of Magna Carta inspired American colonists to declare their independence from England in this video from the ABOTA Foundation and PBS Learning Media. Includes video, background essay and teaching guide!
Magna Carta: Introduction
Learn about the significance and influence of Magna Carta on U.S. history and government in this video from the ABOTA Foundation and PBS Learning Media. Includes video, background essay, guide for teachers, and teaching tips!
Freedom of the Press: New York Times v. United States
This documentary examines the First Amendment’s protection of a free press as well as the historic origins of this right and the ramifications of the landmark ruling in New York Times v. United States in which the Supreme Court that prior restraint is unconstitutional. The federal government could not prevent newspapers from publishing the Pentagon Papers. A lesson plan, Defenders of Liberty: The People and the Press, accompanies the video.
Is the System Fair?
Throughout U.S. history, Americans have silently stewed and actively protested that presidential elections are unfair and fixed against them. Do they have a point? In this lesson, students will understand why people are critical of the political process. They will discuss the topic: Do all voters have an equal voice in American democracy? Registration at NewseumED is required to view this resource.
Ben’s Guide to the U.S. Government
Go on a learning adventure with Benjamin Franklin. Ben’s Guide is designed to inform students, parents, and educators about the workings of the Federal Government. Site content is divided into age levels. Lesson plans developed by the American Association of School Librarians are available, and games are also offered.