Today in History–September 17–the Library of Congress features Battle of Antietam, fought on this day in 1862. The bloodiest battle in the Civil War—more than 23,000 killed, wounded or missing in action--was fought in the hills of Sharpsburg, Maryland. Although the Confederates occupied the town of Sharpsburg at nightfall, the battle was a Union victory. Find out more about Union General George B. McClellan's victory over Confederate General Robert E. Lee by visiting the Today in … [Read more...]
Today in History: Louis Jordan
December 21, 2012 by Leave a Comment
Today in History–December 21–the Library of Congress features saxophonist Louis Jordan, debuted two popular singles on rhythm and blues (R&B) charts on this date in 1946. With a style that combined jazz and blues, Jordan and his Tympany Five launched 54 singles in the 1940s, 18 of which songs reached number one. Learn more about this talented musician by visiting the Today in History section, then click the links below for related primary sources. Louis Jordan's Record "Let the Good Times … [Read more...]
Today in History: Air Raid on Pearl Harbor
December 7, 2012 by Leave a Comment
Today in History–December 7–the Library of Congress features the Japanese air raid on Pearl Harbor, which occurred on this day in 1941. A hurried Navy dispatch sent out the news: AIR RAID ON PEARL HARBOR X THIS IS NOT DRILL. More than 2,300 Americans were killed, 160 aircraft were destroyed, and 12 ships sank. The next day the United States declared war on Japan. Learn more about this fateful day in U.S. history by visiting the Today in History section, then click the links below to access … [Read more...]
Today in History: Oregon
August 14, 2012 by Leave a Comment
Today in History–August 14–the Library of Congress features Oregon, which Congress named a territory on this day in 1848. The territory was massive, encompassing present-day Oregon, Idaho, Washington, and parts of western Montana and Wyoming. The smaller state of Oregon joined the union in 1859. Learn more about Oregon by visiting the Today in History section, then follow the links below to access more primary sources. Oregon stories from America’s Library Bungled Borders in the Pacific … [Read more...]
Analyzing Primary Sources: Learning from Music
May 21, 2012 by Leave a Comment
Music can trigger powerful emotions and brain research has shown the strong link between emotion and memory. Songs and sheet music, also referred to as musical scores, are great primary sources to use with students to enable them tap into the feelings and emotions surrounding historical events and figures. Analyzing recorded songs and sheet music, which often include evocative cover illustrations, can help students better understand the historical context of these people and events and more … [Read more...]
Today in History: Thomas A. Edison
August 12, 2011 by Leave a Comment
Today in History–August 12–the Library of Congress features scientist and inventor Thomas A. Edison, who is credited with completing the model of the first phonograph on this day in 1877. Find out more about the "wizard of Menlo Park" by visiting the Today in History section, where you'll also find links to other Library sound collections. Then click the links below to access more resources and primary sources related to Edison and inventions. Thomas A. Edison biography Thomas A. Edison … [Read more...]
George Washington penned a letter about religious freedom to prominent Jewish leader Moses Seixas. Check out our