Drawing from historical sources as well as contemporary analysis, Finding Freedom explores the lives and decisions of five real people of African descent living in Virginia in 1781, as the British and American armies battle across the state. Their first-person narratives – supported by classroom resources, including primary sources – feature points of decision-making to
Season of Independence – Online Interactive Map and Timeline
Mirroring an in-museum resource, this interactive online map and timeline tracks statements of support for independence across the 13 American colonies in rebellion over time, while placing those colonies in larger geographic context. Throughout, it presents the voices of those who supported independence, disagreed, and hoped to avoid a war altogether. Use the accompanying classroom
Black Founders: The Forten Family of Philadelphia – Virtual Exhibit Tour
During the Revolutionary War, James Forten – a young man of African descent born free in Philadelphia – served on a privateer ship to support the Revolutionary cause. Afterwards, he and his family fought to encourage the new nation to live up to its revolutionary ideals. Use the materials in this online exhibit, supported by
When Women Lost the Vote: A Revolutionary Story, 1776-1807 – Online Exhibit
Between 1776 and 1807, women and free people of African descent were legally allowed to vote in New Jersey if they met a property-ownership requirement. Through primary source documents, high-quality images of artifacts and historical objects, and interviews with historians, this exhibit explores a little-known moment in the history of the Revolutionary era, how the
Timeline of the American Revolution
Using a mixture of historical objects, artifacts, and documents drawn from the Museum’s collection, this multimedia timeline explores both key moments and surprising stories of the American Revolution. The Timeline features high-quality images and is enhanced by video explorations of select items. It encourages users to look closely, dig deeply, and even extend their experience
Lessons plans for “The Supreme Court and the 1876 Presidential Election”
These lesson plans for both basic high school and AP US History have been created for students who have watched the video. Students will analyze a map of 1876 electoral votes, a cartoon depicting a Black voter being turned away from the ballot box, an infographic about voting procedures that highlights the role of canvassing
The Supreme Court and the 1876 Presidential Election – Video
In 1876 the outcome of the presidential election between Samuel Tilden and Rutherford B. Hayes was decided by a 15-member Commission, which included 5 Supreme Court Justices. Usually, the Hayes-Tilden election is taught as the event that ended Reconstruction, but this 15-minute video adds to that story. It examines the nuts of bolts of presidential
Heroes of Progress
This unit focuses on the remarkable historical figures who have embodied human progress and innovation throughout world history. Students will delve into the lives and achievements of influential individuals, exploring their contributions in areas such as science, art, and social reform, cultivating a deep appreciation for the transformative power of individuals in shaping our world.
Economics
This unit aims to cultivate critical thinking skills in students as they explore microeconomics and macroeconomics, examining the role of government in the economy through lessons that encourage analysis, evaluation, and understanding of economic principles and government interventions.
Immigration: Is History Repeating Itself?
This lesson offers your students the opportunity to dig more into the historical and contemporary status of immigration in America through examining primary source documents and engaging with multiple perspectives.