WWII Detroit: America's 'Arsenal of Democracy'

Prior to the United States' entrance into World War II, President Franklin Roosevelt challenged the nation to become the world's "arsenal of democracy," to arm itself and so protect other democratic nations against the onslaught of Nazi Germany and Imperial Japan. One city in particular picked up that thrown gauntlet: Detroit. Detroiters worked round the clock in defense plants to produce 30 percent of U.S. war machinery, equipment, and munitions. Jobs were plentiful. In fact, there were more jobs than workers to fill them. WWII Detroit Answered FDR's call for America's 'Arsenal of Democracy'

Exposed Shipwreck in Grand Haven, Mich., Reveals Maritime History

For years, Michigan's waterways have been drying up. Exposed muddy shoals and riverbeds are yielding up fascinating treasures. In Grand Haven, Michigan, the now-visible shipwreck Aurora connects the state's east and west side maritime history. Here's her story.  Shipwreck Appearing in Grand Haven, Mich.

September 11, Hurricane Katrina: Separate and Unequal Reactions

It's with mixed emotions that I ponder 9/11, 10 years later. I knew our nation would engulf the WTC, Flight 93 and Pentagon victims with love. My fellow Americans are kindhearted. But when a big wind named Katrina drowned New Orleans four years later, where was that compassion? It's a tale of two Americas. Two profiles in courage with a segregation of empathy. Two separate and unequal responses, two equal and opposite reactions. 9/11 and Hurricane Katrina: Separate and Unequal Reactions from a Compassionate Nation 

Constitution Day, September 17, Benjamin Franklin Lessons

The U.S. celebrates Constitution Day on September 17. Use these activities for a back to school unit on early American government, including a look a one of America's most influential men--Ben Franklin. Who was Benjamin Franklin? He was many things. Born January 17, 1706, Benjamin Franklin was the 15th of Josiah Franklin's 17 children. His parents were poor working class people. Franklin's grandparents had been blacksmith, farmer and indentured servant. Despite this, Benjamin Franklin has been called a 'Renaissance Man'.   Read on Benjamin Franklin Lesson Plans, Homework Help for American History 

Best Labor Unions History Movies to Watch for Labor Day

 Labor Day, the first Monday in September, was designated to celebrate the achievements of organized labor unions in protecting workers' rights.Labor Day is about more than just BBQs and the last summer holiday. Here are labor union movies to watch for Labor Day. When labor wins a victory it helps everyone.

We have organized labor unions to thank for better healthcare benefits, unemployment benefits, safer working conditions, womens' right, racial unity, overtime pay, paid holidays and sick days, child labor laws and many other benefits that workers now take for granted. Watch these movies to understand more about how labors unions have impacted our lives. Since writing this I've since watched and recommend "Harlan County War" also. Read on  Best Labor Unions History Movies to Watch for Labor Day

Last Titanic Survivor: Passed Away

Last Titanic Survivor Dies at 98 on Anniversary of Launch
Titanic was clearly sinkable. But the courage of the passengers and their memory remains forever unsinkable. Perhaps significantly,the last Titanic survivor, Millvina Dean passed away on Titanic's launch date 98 years later.
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Feast of the Strawberry Moon- Native American/French Voyageur Encampment

Feast of the Strawberry Moon
a review of the week-end activities associated with a military, French voyageur and native American encampment; includes dress, food, artifacts, transportation, weaponry, dwelling and living styles
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Vietnam War Protest Songs

Music Playlist: 25 War and Government Protest Songs
Need a playlist of protest songs for your election party? Maybe you need protest music for your history, government or current affairs class? 25 songs that protest war and government intervention. Use for classroom, school projects or election issues.
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Free Lessons on Native American Culture

Free Printable Native American Activities
Thanksgiving is a perfect season to explore Native American Indian cultures. Understanding American Indian history helps us understand all history better. Here are free printable Native American lesson plans to help.
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