American History Guru
Sunday May 11, 2008
Do you have what it takes to be an American History guru? Take this quiz to find out.
Anniversay of V-E Day - World War II
Thursday May 8, 2008
May 8, 1945, V-E day! Today is the anniversary of the official victory for the War in Europe during World War II. On May 7th, Germany surrendered and May 8th was declared Victory in Europe Day. Sadly, each year marks the passing of numerous veterans of this war. We must always keep their memory and their courageous achievements alive.
Alan B. Shepard Jr. and the First Spaceflight
Monday May 5, 2008
Today, May 5, 1961, Alan B. Shepard Jr. became America's first astronaut as he made a 15-minute flight in a space capsule launched from Cape Canaveral, Florida adding legitimatimacy to the United States Space Program. Shepard was named a Rear Admiral and by the end of his career had logged 216 hours and 57 minutes in space. He died on July 21, 1998.
Stonewall Jackson was wounded during the Battle of Chancellorsville
Friday May 2, 2008
The Battle of Chancellorsville occurred between April 30 and May 6, 1863. It ended in a Confederate victory. However, many historians believe that the loss of Stonewall Jackson who was wounded on May 2, was a serious blow to the Confederacy during the Civil War.
Declaration of Independence Study Guide
Wednesday April 30, 2008
The Declaration of Independence was created more than 200 years ago yet still has relevance in today's world. It has profoundly affected not only the history of the United States but of other countries who have claimed independence throughout the world. Here is a study guide that provides you with the background leading up to the document, information about the document, study resources and questions, and a quiz to see how much you know about it. Enjoy!
Completion of the Golden Gate Bridge
Sunday April 27, 2008
On April 27, 1937, after four years of construction, the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco was opened for travel between Marin County and San Francisco. The bridge featured the world’s tallest bridge towers rising up to 746 feet tall. The bridge would become the symbol of San Francisco.
Top 10 Things to Know About John Adams
Thursday April 24, 2008
The HBO miniseries on John Adams based on the book John Adams by David McCullough has met with critical acclaim. Adams truly was a fascinating character and in many ways an underrated president. This top 10 list of things to know about John Adams gives an overview the the key items that you should know when studying the second president of the United States.
More on John Adams
More on John Adams
Benjamin Franklin Put To Rest
Monday April 21, 2008
On April 21, 1790, Benjamin Franklin was buried in what was considered one of the most splendid funerals ever seen in Philadelphia. One of America's founding fathers, Franklin's role in drafting the Declaration of Independence is still remembered today.
The San Francisco Earthquake
Friday April 18, 2008
On April 18, 1906, at 5:13 a.m., San Francisco was the target of the most violent earthquake ever recorded in its history. Recently in the news has been talk of how prepared San Francisco would be if one hit there again today. Visit the Historical Disasters page for more information of devastating events of our past.
Lincoln Shot
Monday April 14, 2008
April 14, 1865, while watching a performance of "Our American Cousin" at Ford's Theater with his wife, President Abraham Lincoln was assassinated from a gunshot wound to the back of the head at point-blank range by John Wilkes Booth. Abraham Lincoln had recently won reelection to a second term of office and had helped lead the north to victory in the Civil War. Many Lincoln assassination conspiracy theories surrounded his death including odd and lesser known theories concerning Andrew Johnson and the Catholic Church.