Haitians had expected 2004 to be a year of celebrations marking the 200th anniversary of independence from France following the only successful slave revolt of its time. Instead political violence exploded early in the year and armed gunmen took over cities demanding President Jean-Bertrand Aristide resign. Just as the rebels prepared to move in…

It can be a challenge to introduce students to a world region with the cultural diversity and rich history of Latin America. In this article, the author suggests four thematic units that enable teachers to identify both general trends and important differences in the region: (1) race/ethnicity; (2) progress and civilization; (3) conflict and…

Explores present educational needs for implementing a democratic society in Poland. Challenges education to identify the tasks and values of democratic education. Contends that education formerly confirmed the role of socialism and Communist ideology. Argues that the current thrust is the ideal of a participatory society. Lists skills necessary to…

Gives an historical overview of Cambodia during the Pol Pot regime. Describes the genocide that attempted to eradicate Buddhist monks, Vietnamese, Chinese, and Muslim Chams between 1975 and 1979. Argues the regime should still be held accountable and that the case should be tried in the World Court. (NL)

Suggests fiction and nonfiction books that may help expand student's knowledge of the potential and hazards of nuclear power. Outlines learning activities and discussion questions that can be combined with supplementary reading. Includes an annotated bibliography of 13 fiction and nonfiction titles that can be used in the class. (MJP)

Recounts a personal anecdote describing an informal visit to the White House by Harry Hopkins' son. Although the son of one of Roosevelt's closest advisors, Robert Hopkins enlisted in the army as a private. Roosevelt wrote a note to the young man's commanding officer explaining his late return to camp. (MJP)

Presents background information and instructional materials for a lesson plan concerning the interaction between Jackie Robinson and President Eisenhower regarding the integration of public schools in Little Rock, Arkansas. Robinson chided the President for his cautious response to violent opposition to integration. Includes a copy of the…

Profiles the elaborate attempts by the Roosevelt White House to hide his disability from the public. Early in his career, polio resulted in Franklin Roosevelt being paralyzed from the waist down. Although never officially denied, the White House went to extraordinary lengths to keep this knowledge from the public. (MJP)

Personalizes the devastating effect of the Great Depression on young people through excerpts of letters sent to Eleanor Roosevelt. Young people across the country responded to the First Lady's efforts on behalf of the poor and dispossessed. Discusses the many relief and work programs created by the New Deal. (MJP)

Examines the controversy over the representation of President Roosevelt in the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial in Washington, DC. The sculptures in the memorial do not show Roosevelt's cane, braces, or wheelchair. Disability advocates claim that this reinforces shameful stereotypes. Memorial supporters believe it should reflect the public…

Characterizes the New Deal as "the single most important twentieth-century episode in the creation of the modern American state." Discusses the astonishing range of legislative activity enacted to respond to the Great Depression and the ensuing political opposition. Frankly evaluates those programs that failed. (MJP)

Characterizes the New Deal public works program as combining the short-term goal of unemployment relief with the long-term goal of regional economic development. Discusses the planning, implementation, and political opposition of the New Deal's many public works programs including the Tennessee Valley Authority and the Works Progress…

Describes Eleanor Roosevelt's efforts to correct institutional racism. Mrs. Roosevelt worked continually in support of civil rights for African Americans in employment, housing, and the armed services. Her efforts often were met with vehement and venomous opposition. (MJP)

Presents a concise and interesting overview of the rise and extension of labor activity during the New Deal. Labor took advantage of Roosevelt's pro-union policies to consolidate their power and forever transform the lives of working men and women. Discusses improvements in working conditions, wages, and benefits. (MJP)

Examines the controversy generated by art works commissioned by the Works Progress Administration (WPA). Attempting to create work for depression-era artists, the WPA often commissioned murals for government buildings. Recounts the experience of Seymour Fogel, who's positive portrayal of Native Americans ran afoul of racist sentiments in Safford,…