Joseph Hawkins was one of many workers aboard a slave ship in the 1700’s. Listen to a dramatic reading of his narrative, and then study the supporting primary sources to answer the discussion questions. This resource is part of a series called “Life at Sea: 1680 to 1806,” which includes fiv

During the colonial period, cattle horns were used by woodsmen and by soldiers for storing gunpowder in a safe, dry place. The horns also became decorative objects as they were personalized by the owner. Makers carved names, initials, dates, flags, battles, and even full maps on the exterior of t

The halberd was a versatile pole arm developed as an infantry weapon in the 13th century. It has an ax-like blade and a steel spike mounted on the end of a long shaft. By the time of the Seven Years War it was carried by sergeants as a symbol of rank and authority.

On October 28, 1774, the Rhode Island General Assembly chartered the Newport Light Infantry as a voluntary association of local citizens. These citizens wanted to form a company to obtain better military training than the colonial militia provided. The infantry, 100 strong, demonstrated its patri

Tell the story of early American science with an online exhibition and digital reproduction of the oldest surviving Anglo-American star map. This hand-drawn star map, created in 1780, reflects a story of scientific curiosity and the practical applications of astronomy in colonial America. Simeon

Lydia Minturn Post, a Long Island patriot, expresses her fear that the American Revolution will fail. Ms. Post discusses the disparities between the British and Colonial forces and the true meaning behind the colonists will to fight. This video is part of the Price of Freedom learning reso

Use artifacts and a historical letter to discuss George Washington’s leadership during the War of Independence and the qualities of great leaders. This lesson plan, which includes background information, full color primary sources, and a transcript of a letter about George Washington, was produ

Engage middle school students in historical document analysis with three contrasting images of the Battles of Lexington and Concord.  Using a graphic organizer, students will examine three primary sources and analyze the different perspectives presented in each. After completing the analysis

Use artifacts and historical literature to bring the War of Independence to life for elementary students.  By playing the "Who's in camp?" card game, students develop a deeper understanding of the many civilian and military roles that supported the War of Independence, then use their knowled

This engraving shows Hernán Cortés (1485 1547), the Spanish captain who headed the conquest of the Aztec Empire. He became a part of popular mythology the moment he arrived in Mexico in 1521. Cortés had spent time in Cuba killing and enslaving its indigenous inhabitants and administering the n