From America’s Library: Dwight D. Eisenhower Born: October 14, 1890 Died: March 28, 1969 Dwight David Eisenhower was an inspiring military leader, best-selling author, head of Columbia University, and president of the United States. As the top American general and later Allied Supreme Commander in the European theater, he directed Allied forces in World War II to victories in North Africa and Italy and coordinated the massive and successful D-Day invasion of France. Extraordinarily … [Read more...]
Learning from the Source: Primary Source Perspectives of the Civil War
September 3, 2013 by Leave a Comment
Overview Primary sources can help students grasp the reality and impact of historical events. This project connects students to people, events and daily life during the Civil War by having them report on selected topics using primary sources to research and illustrate their learning. To complete this project, students will . . . familiarize themselves with key Civil War events and people. gain an understanding and appreciation of the perspectives of the North and the South during the … [Read more...]
Today in History: Rock of Chickamauga
July 31, 2013 by Leave a Comment
Today in History–July 31–the Library of Congress features Civil War General George H. Thomas, born on this date in 1816. Although he was born in Virginia, Thomas allied with the Union in the Civil War. Thomas' 1863 defense of Chickamauga Creek in northwestern Georgia led to the moniker the "Rock of Chickamauga". The following year he played a key role in the siege of Atlanta under Union General William T. Sherman. Learn more about this West Point military man by visiting … [Read more...]
Today in History: William T. Sherman
March 11, 2013 by Leave a Comment
Today in History–March 11–the Library of Congress features General William T. Sherman, who destroyed the Confederate arsenal upon capturing the town of Fayetteville, North Carolina, on this date in 1865. Just about one month later, the Confederacy surrendered, ending the Civil War. Learn more about Sherman as well as war-time work carried out by women by visiting the Today in History section. For more primary sources related to General Sherman, click the links below. Sherman Captured … [Read more...]
Today in History: Stonewall Jackson
January 21, 2013 by Leave a Comment
Today in History–January 21–the Library of Congress features Confederate general Stonewall Jackson, born on this date in 1824. An orphan, Thomas Jonathan Jackson devoted his life to the military as a soldier, teacher, and leader. Learn more about this man known for his stout courage by visiting the Today in History section, then click the links below to access more resources about Stonewall Jackson and the Civil War. Stonewall Jackson Was Born from America's Library Stonewall Jackson … [Read more...]
Today in History: Nathanael Greene
August 7, 2012 by Leave a Comment
Today in History–August 7–the Library of Congress features Revolutionary War hero Nathanael Greene, born on this day in 1742. A West Point commander, Green replaced the disgraced Benedict Arnold and played a significant part in the defeat of British General Lord Cornwallis at Cowpens, South Carolina. Find out more by visiting the Today in History section, then click the links below to access related resources. Nathanael Greene Was Born from America's Library Nathanael Greene image … [Read more...]
Today in History: Zachary Taylor
May 8, 2012 by Leave a Comment
Today in History–May 8–the Library of Congress features Zachary Taylor, who led U.S. troops to defeat the Mexican army in a two-day battle at Palo Alto and Resaca de la Palma on this day in 1846. Two years later he became president of the United States but his term was short; he died in office after serving only 16 months. Learn more by visiting the Today in History section, then click the links below to access more primary sources about this general and 12th U.S. president. Illustrated … [Read more...]
Today in History: George Washington’s First Inaugural Address
April 30, 2012 by Leave a Comment
Today in History–April 30–the Library of Congress features George Washington, who delivered his first inaugural address on this date in 1789 to a joint session of Congress, assembled in Federal Hall in the nation's new capital, New York City. Learn more about our nation’s first president (1789-97) by visiting the Today in History section, then click the links below to access more stories and primary sources about Washington and his inaugurations. Pre-inaugural speech to the citizens of … [Read more...]
Today in History: Ulysses S. Grant
April 27, 2012 by Leave a Comment
Today in History–April 27–the Library of Congress features Ulysses S. Grant, born on this day in 1822. Find out more about this military leader and U.S. president by visiting the Today in History section, then follow the links below to access more primary sources and resources about the 17th president of the United States. Background Stories from America’s Library Ulysses S. Grant Was Born April 27, 1822 General Ulysses S. Grant Attempted to Take Vicksburg, Mississippi May 19, … [Read more...]
Today in History: Mexican-American War
February 23, 2012 by Leave a Comment
Today in History–February 23–the Library of Congress features the Mexican American War. On this day in 1847 U.S. General Zachary Taylor was victorious over Mexican General Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna in the Battle of Buena Vista. Learn more by visiting the Today in History section, then click the links below to discover more about this war between the U.S. and its southern neighbor. Expanding the nation & the war with Mexico from America's Library Congressional declaration of war on … [Read more...]
French photography pioneer Louis-Jacques-Mandé Daguerre. Check out our 
North American railroads switched to Standard Railway Time. Check out our