Professor Schramm discusses Abraham Lincoln's use of language in his composition of speeches and written works.
To listen to this lecture, scroll to the Wednesday, August seventh, 4:30 pm-6:00 pm session; and select the RealAudio link or image in the gray bar to the left of the main body of text.
Professor Lucas E. Morel examines the interrelationship of political decisions and pressures, westward expansion, and the issue of slavery in the antebellum U.S. and how these forces combined to lead to the Civil War. This lecture continues from the lecture "Slavery, Antebellum Politics, and Westward Expansion, Part One."
To listen to this lecture, scroll to session five, and select the RealAudio image or link in the gray bar to the left of the main body of text.
Professor Lucas E. Morel examines the interrelationship of political decisions and pressures, westward expansion, and the issue of slavery in the antebellum U.S. and how these forces combined to lead to the Civil War.
To listen to this lecture, scroll to session four, and select the RealAudio image or link in the gray bar to the left of the main body of text.
Professors John Moser and David Tucker discuss the development of the presidency as an institution in the United States, looking at the intentions of the Founding Fathers in creating the institution and what it has evolved into over time.
To listen to this lecture, scroll to session nine, and select either the RealAudio image or link in the gray bar to the left of the main body of text.
Professor Sidney Milkis talks about what U.S. citizens have historically considered "greatness" in presidents, and their desire to be led by such "great" figures. Milkis asks what qualities define this "greatness."
To listen to this lecture, scroll to the Wednesday, June 19th, 7:00 pm-9:00 pm session; and select the RealAudio image or link in the gray bar to the left of the main body of text.
Professor David Tucker examines the presidency of Andrew Jackson and his image as a powerful, forceful president. Tucker looks at Jackson's veto of the Bank Bill; and examines the general perception of presidents—why they are perceived as they are, and what qualities are seen as representative of good "character" in a president.
To listen to this lecture, scroll to session 5, and select the RealAudio image or link in the gray bar to the left of the main body of the text.
This lecture follows the history of the Bancroft Library, the leading research library for California and Western American history. It details Hubert Howe Bancroft's collection of historical materials, starting in 1859; continues with Bancroft's sale of the collection to the University of California in 1905; and then follows the library's development and leadership to 2005.
To listen to this lecture, scroll down to "A Library for California," and select "Listen to Broadcast."
This lecture provides a narrative account of the rapid migration to and development of California during the Gold Rush years, from 1849 through 1884. It describes the wild scramble for profit, exploitation of resources, and relative lawlessness during the early years, while also emphasizing the role of farmers in the Gold Rush—first as supporters of the miners, and then in conflict with the miners.
To listen to this lecture, scroll to "Like America Only More So: The Origins and Power of California's Image," and select "Listen to Broadcast."
An overview of the history of Catholic missions in California, from their establishment during imperial Spain's colonization of the region through the push for their restoration and preservation in the 1800s. The presentation places an emphasis on the changing role and popular perceptions of the missions and on their effects on Native American populations.
To listen to this lecture, scroll to "The California Mission as Symbol and Myth," and select "Listen to Broadcast."
If you happen to be looking for federal primary sources from Ohio, Indiana, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, or Illinois, a good spot to check is the Chicago office of the National Archives and Records Administration. Records available include bankruptcy records, Chinese Exclusion case files from Chicago and St. Paul, Michigan and Illinois Selective Service System Name Index records, and naturalization records. Other topics represented in the collections include, but aren't limited to, African American history, Depression era history, disasters, espionage, and maritime history.
Consider looking through the site's finding aids to get a sense of the collections available on location.
When visiting, be ready with an official photo ID and willingness to fill out a short form concerning your interests. Leave your pens behind (pencils are permitted), and prepare to leave your belongings in a locker or in your car.
Looking for more directed opportunities? Check out the archives' upcoming events. If you teach in Illinois or Indiana, you may even be eligible for continuing education credit.
In addition to the aforementioned public programs, there are workshops designed specifically for teachers. Find them (and more opportunities) under the Workshops heading.
Archivists are ready and willing to help your students define their research topics and select appropriate primary sources, for National History Day projects or other endeavors.