Contends that poetry is a particularly useful and engaging vehicle for revealing the complexities of a historical moment. Outlines three exercises on poetry and history designed as adjunct activities that may be used with the specified historical periods. Focuses on the experiences of African Americans. Includes three handouts with reading…

Presents a lesson plan dealing with the Columbian Exposition of 1893 at the Chicago (Illinois) World's Fair. Stresses recognition of (1) the connection between the past and the present; (2) the significance of Columbus Day; (3) the use of photographs as primary sources; and (4) the architecture of historical periods. Includes suggestions,…

Describes the Transatlantic Classroom (TAC), a teacher-run e-mail program between students in the United States and Germany, and provides 10 steps for launching a similar program. Explains that e-mail exchanges enable students to learn firsthand about differences and similarities between countries thus fostering greater cultural understanding.…

Highlights materials relating to the U.S. frontier during the 19th century by citing journal articles and documents related to this topic. Indicates the means for obtaining these works which deal with rural schooling, historical demography, Native Americans, music, revivalism, and Black cowboys. (KO)

Reveals an interesting and overlooked chapter in Hispanic cultural history. The Claremont, California, Padua Hills Theater presented Spanish-language, Mexican-theme musicals to a mostly white audience from 1931 to 1974. Although it presented romantic, and occasionally stereotypical views of Mexican American life, the theater deserves recognition.…

Presents a lesson plan constructed around materials found in the User's Guide to the Federal Project. The Federal Theater Project produced radical and populist plays during the Great Depression before being de-funded by a conservative Congress. The lessons include activities and discussion built around the original plays. (MJP)