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History For Children

Is the White House Haunted?
The White House is the home of the President of the United States. Like any other old house, ghostly apparitions have been reported walking the halls and spending time in the Oval Office, Lincoln's bedroom, and the East Room.
A Warm Day in Dallas: Part Two
When President Kennedy's motorcade approaches the School Book Depository, a shot rings out. What happens next has been open to criticism since that warm day in Dallas in 1963.
A Warm Day in Dallas: November 22, 1963
The second installment in the Kennedy Assassination series.
60 Years of Victory
My Uncle Bert was part of the Liberation of Holland. He loved the people of that country deeply and often told stories of how well he and his fellow Canadian soldiers were treated there.
November 22, 1963: The Day the President Died
November 22, 1963, started out pretty much like any other day. Little did we know when we boarded the school bus that morning that this would be the day when history was made.
Sacajawea: Interpreter
Sacajawea was a Shoshone girl who was kidnapped by the Blackfoot. Little did she know that when she was fifteen, she would trek across the country with a baby on her back.
A Biography of Jefferson Davis, the President of the Confederacy in the American Civil War
A short biography of Jefferson Davis, the president of the Confederacy in the American Civil War.
George Washington Carver: Part Two
George Washington Carver, born into slavery in Diamond, Missouri, went on to leave the world a great legacy.
George Washington Carver
George Washington Carver was born into slavery on his father's farm in Diamond, Missouri. Who would have thought that this slave boy would change the world of agriculture forever?
February is Black History Month
A bit about Black History Month. This article contains the instructions for a Hands Around the World Project.
The Female Paul Revere
Hi! My name is Sybil Ludington. I was born in Fredericksburg, New York. On April 26, 1777, when I was 16 years old, I rode 40 miles to gather the men of the militia together to fight against the British.
Valentine Card Challenge
Have you bought your Valentine cards yet? If not, I challenge you to make them from information in this article. If you scan them and send them to me, I will post them on Kids' Korner.
How Bear Lost His Tail
Long ago, bear trusted Fox to help him catch a meal of fish. But Fox tricked bear. Find out what happened in this delightful tale of native folklore.
The True Meaning of Christmas: Part Two
It is Chrismas. Misty the Cocker Spaniel puppy feels neglected. No one has time to play with her. The family are busy and all they ever talk about is Christmas. Misty wonders, "What is Christmas?" Will she find out?
The True Meaning of Christmas
It is Chrismas. Misty the Cocker Spaniel puppy feels neglected. No one has time to play with her. The family are busy and all they ever talk about is Christmas. Misty wonders, "What is the true meaning of Christmas?" Will she find out?
The History of Toys and Games
Did you know that toys and games have been part of childhood for thousands of years? As early as 4000 B.C. (before Christ), games became a source of entertainment.
In Flanders Fields
We are all familiar with the poem "In Flanders Fields," but what does it signify?
The History of Halloween
Every year on October 31st, we dress up in costumes and head out for trick-or-treating. This is the modern tradition of Halloween. But where did this tradition originate (come from)? Is it a time to worship the devil or demons? Is it just an ancient pagan ritual? Let’s find out.
My Name is Pumpkin
Hi! My name is pumpkin. No, it's not a nickname. I'm the big orange fruit that grows in gardens and farmer's fields. I stopped by to tell you about myself and my ancestors. We've been around for 9,000 years.
The Buffalo Stone
One time long, long ago, before we had horses, the buffalo suddenly disappeared. And then, an old woman, a second wife, found a way to bring the buffalo back to the Blackfoot.
How Robin Got His Red Breast
Long ago, Robin looked much different than he does today. He was entirely gray. How did he get his red breast? This Inuit legend tells the story.
Around the Campfire
Have you ever been on a camping trip and listened to ghost stories around a campfire? If so, you have a good idea of how entertaining oral traditions were to the Natives of North America.
Angel of Mercy
Can you imagine tending the wounded and dying on the battlefields of the American Civil War? That's what Harriet Patience Dame did. She's stopped by today to tell us her story.
The Little Drummer Boy
Can you imagine marching off to war at the tender age of ten years? That's exactly what Johnny Clem did way back in 1861.
The Moon Sisters
Ginnie and Lottie Moon were born in Virginia. When the Civil War broke out, they were definitely on the side of the South. To what lengths would these women go for the cause they believed in?
The Bravest Woman in America: Part 2
My name is Ida Lewis. Last week I started to tell you about my life as a lighthouse keeper on Lime Rock, Rhode Island. This week I'm going to finish my story.
The Bravest Woman in America
Hi, my name is Ida Lewis. For fifty-five years I was the keeper of Lime Rock Lighthouse, off the coast of Rhode Island. I hope you enjoy reading about my adventures.
We’ve Come A Long Way Mr. Bell
Can you imagine what it would be like for telephone inventor Alexander Graham Bell to visit the world today and see how his invention has grown? Would he be shocked, happy, appalled or horrified?
Number Pleeyazz
In the beginning telephone companies hired boys as operators. They soon learned boys didn't make good operators and begin to hire women. They worked hard, had patience and made telephone companies successful.
The Party’s Over
Can you imagine sharing a telephone line with up to ten different people? That's what early telephone users did. Now, the party's over.
I Would Like to Spend a Day with Gandhi
Seven year old Max Wallack was the winner of the April 2004, History for Children Writing Contest. Max's essay was on Gandhi. He did a great job. Congratulations Max!!!
R-i-i-i-n-n-n-g
Do you know proper telephone etiquette? Let's take a trip back in time to see what life was like when the telephone was younng. What it was like to use a telephone in those days? These questions and more will be answered in this article.
Turn on the Radio
People of the Great Depression faced many hardships each day. To escape from the stress of life, each evening the family would gather in the living room. Someone would say, Turn on the Radio! and the fun would begin.
Income and Expenses: 1935
Imagine you are a doctor in 1935. Your patients pay you $ 3.00 a visit. You make about $ 61.00 a month. They make between $ 10.00 and $ 16.00 a month. You spend your money freely. They are going without food. Christmas is coming. You have some hard decisions to make.
My Mother and the Great Depression
My mother was born in 1927. She grew up during the era known as the Great Depression. She remembers lots of things from that time. Enjoy reading about some of the things she's told me.
The Dirty 30's
Imagine living in the Dirty 30's. This time (1930 - 1939) was known as the Great Depression. It was a time of hardship for millions of Americans and Canadians.
Harriet Jacobs: Prisoner of Freedom
Can you imagine living in a crawlspace seven feet wide and nine feet long for almost seven years? It would be sheer torture, wouldn’t it? Well, that is exactly what Harriet Jacobs did.
Let’s Attend a Slave Auction
Imagine that you live in Maryland in 1854. You are an abolitionist. You hate slavery, but feel that you need to keep up with the times. There is a slave auction at the local auction house. You decide to go.
The Vanishing Tribe
In 200 A.D., the Beothuck Indians made their home on what is now known as Newfoundland, Canada. In 1829, with the passing of Shanawdithit, a Beothuck woman, the tribe vanished.
One Who Serves
Come learn about how some young boys and girls followed in their father's footsteps to become the most powerful warriors in Japan.
Make Your Own Medicine
It's back to school! Most of us think of computers, books, and blackboards when going back to school. But education can take many forms as this month shows. For Native American children, education was not only learning new skills, it was learning a way of life.
The Last Great Race on Earth
What has two hands, 50 legs, and goes "mush"? Don't know? Read on and learn about what is one of the greatest race competitions in the world, and how it helped a state remember its frontier past.
Trickster Tales
One early form of African American literature was the trickster tale, passed on from the first African slaves. But these tales were not just for entertainment; they also served as a way to rebel against the master. See how slaves made use of this wily character to teach and inspire.
Soul Deep: The Legacy of African American Literature and Music
The contributions of African Americans to literature and music began almost as soon as they first settled in America.
A Timeless Tale
150 years after its publication, this Christmas classic continues to spread its message of Christmas spirit, renewal, and hope.
September 11, 2001: Looking Back
Some web sites and books of interest for remembering and understanding September 11, 2001.
May Day!
May 1 is an important day for workers all over the world. Find out why.
Working In Lowell
They came from all over New England in search of a better job, better wages and a better life. They left behind a legacy as some of America's first wage-earning women.
Eternal Foreigners Among Eternal Strangers
Seeking a life not dictated by the "color line," these African-Americans left the United States for Europe.
The Fugitives
This month, in honor of Black History Month, Ignatz and I are going to look at different types of African-American communities. First, fleeing to freedom, these former slaves created thriving communities, hidden from white eyes and the master's dogs.
Pictures From the Past
While looking for their lost dog, four French boys came upon an amazing discovery.
First Pass Under Heaven
This week begins a month-long look at some "great walls."
Novus Ordo Selorum: A New Order for the Ages
It was clear that the Articles of Confederation would no longer effectively govern the country. What would the nation's leaders do now?
The Collapse of the Confederation
By the late 1780s, Americans were growing increasingly unhappy with their government. What was the problem?
In Search of a National Government
Before there was a Constitution, there were the Articles of Confederation. See how this document helped lay the groundwork for the future document that we study today.
"An Election of Government"
We're getting off to a bit of a late start this fall, and for that Ignatz and I do apologize. This week begins a month-long look at the United States Constitution. But before there was a national constitution, there were state governments, each with their own constitutions. Their beginnings are key to understanding how the American constitution was born.
Historical Fiction for Summer Reading
Back-to-School may be just around the corner for some of you, but here's a quick look at some titles to fill those last lazy days of summer reading!
Summertime Reading With Ignatz
Too hot? Looking for something to read? Take a look at some of these great history titles!
"The Traveling Coffin"
What is the H.L. Hunley?
"A Slave Ship Speaks"
From its resting place underneath the water, a ship gives up her painful and historic legacy.
Earth Day 2001!
Want to know more about Earth Day and the 2001 celebration? Check this out!
Watching Over Nature: Rachel Carson
Rachel Carson's lifelong love of nature made her an early champion of the environment.
"A Wilderness Where Man Is Unknown"
Jacques Cousteau's great love of the sea led not only to new developments in oceanography, but in showing people a new and mysterious underwater world.
"A Desire To Copy Nature"
John James Audubon turned his love of nature into an amazing artistic legacy that still stands today.
"Are You A Missing Person?"
Learning about your family history may not be as difficult as you think!
Who Are You?
What do you know about your family history?
"Mark Twain"
As a river boat pilot, Samuel Clemens not only found a new career; he would adopt a new name too.
The Boy From Hannibal
As a young boy in Hannibal, Sam Clemens dreamed of the day when he would leave. But until then, there was plenty of things to see and do.
"Singeing The King's Beard"
Defying orders, Sir Francis Drake carries out a daring plan to strike against England's greatest enemy--the Spanish.
A Battle Royale
A clash between two monarchs, the King of Spain and the Queen of England, sets up a collision course with destiny.
"Say It Ain't So Joe"
A small boy's plea, echoed many fans' heartbreak when they learned the terrible news.
"Girls & Gloves"
During World War II, women were called on to help out in a variety of ways to support the war effort. Read about one of the more unusual ways women helped to keep up morale and help "save" the great American pastime--baseball!
"We Played Baseball"
They endured second-class status. But they played first-rate baseball. Come learn about one of the most exciting chapters in baseball history--the Negro Baseball Leagues.
Albert Goodwill Spalding and the Mythic Origins of Baseball
Learn how one man helped create the creation of "America's Game."
An Afternoon At The Library
Looking through the shelves at the local library can uncover reading treasures of all kinds--this time nonfiction history books for kids.
Historical Fiction: Alive and Well!
A plot to steal Hamlet, a visit to fourteenth-century England, and a soccer game in the midst of World War I. These are just a few suggestions for historical fiction books for kids.
A "Series" Quandry
Series books are one way to interest a child in reading about history. They are also one way that publishers have tried to maintain interest in the printed book. Here's a look at what kids are reading now.
History For Young Readers
It can be a little dismaying to find history books for the very young. Here are a few suggestions.
Sentinels of History
Did you know that learning about history can be as close as looking at a tree?
An Experiment In Living
Which American writer has also been called the "Father of the American Conservation movement?"
Celebrate Earth Day 2000!
This year marks the 30th anniversary of Earth Day. Want To Know More? Check Here.
"Grandmother of the Everglades"
Known as the "lady with the funny hats," this woman was a tireless crusader on behalf of the Flordia Everglades.
"Open All The Doors"
She broke barriers while at the same time capturing the life and times of the twentieth-century world for all to see. Come learn about noted photographer Margaret Bourke-White.
The Maid of Orleans
She first heard the voices when she was thirteen. Four years later she found herself leading an army to defend her country against the English.
Mulan
This young woman's story has inspired generations of Chinese poets, writers, artists, dramatists, and even American filmmakers! She is one of China's "Woman Warriors"-- Mulan.
Rebel With White Gloves
When told of his daughter's plans, this father said, "I would almost rather see you dead." But this young woman went on to establish herself as one of the leading artists of the Impressionist movement, as well as becoming one of the most well-known and respected artists in the world today. Meet Mary Cassatt.
Freedom's Women
Whether arriving as mail-order brides or looking to start their own business, these women came west in search of a better life.
Juneteenth!
June 19th is very special day in many communities across the United States. Read on to learn about African-American "Independence Day."
"Soldiers of the Nation"
Named in honor of the sacred buffalo who roamed the plains, these soldiers have done more than live up to their motto "Semper Leal" (Always Loyal).
"Not Giving Up Is Part of Our Heritage"
Relying on their dreams, they built out of the barren prairie their own towns. Come learn about a unique and often overlooked aspect of frontier settlement.
Ho for Kansas!
Born a slave, this man was determined to lead his people to free soil. . .
"Shake, Rattle, and Roll"
In the space of two minutes, an entire city lay in ruins.
"Send Coffins"
It still ranks as one of the worst disasters in American History. What made this event all the more tragic was that it could have been prevented.
The Big Bang!
Thousands of times more powerful than the atomic bombs dropped on Japan during World War II! So large an explosion that it blotted the sun from the sky! What is this?
Fire!
What do a cow, a firebell, and a city built mostly of wood have in common?
"We Three Kings"
Who were the Magi?
"Johnkankus"
This celebration is known as the first African-American tradition to take root in the United States. It also demonstrates the ingenuity and resourcefulness of Southern slaves in creating something very special from so little.
"Buono Natale!"
Making your Christmas list out for a witch? Setting your shoes out to be filled with gifts? Leaving food for a donkey? What kind of Christmas is this?
'Flower of the Holy Night'
A Mexican legend explains the beauty of this very special Christmas flower.
Two Families of the Renaissance
They were two of the most powerful families of the Renaissance. Yet each is remembered for very different reasons. Come meet the Medici and Borgia families.
"When I Can"
This artist once wrote "My beard points to heaven. . . my paintbrush all the day does drop a rich mosaic on my face." What was he talking about?
"Inside A Renaissance Studio"
What was the difference between an artist and a craftsman during the Renaissance?
"A Renaissance Childhood"
Learn more about childhood and family life during the Renaissance, and how you might have met "Mr. or Mrs. Right" in the 15th century Italy.
"The Days of the Dead"
Listen! What are those sounds? Why it's just some "Calaveras" coming to visit! Learn how one culture honors the memories of those who have died with a very special holiday.
"Bram Stoker: The Man Behind Dracula"
"Welcome to my house. Come freely . . ." This pleasant introduction came from one of the most terrifying literary characters ever created!
"Raw Head and Bloody Bones"
A rice-eating ghost? What's a hag? Explore the rich world of African-American folklore and find out!
"The Woman Who Wrote Frankenstein"
"It was a dark and stormy night. . ." How many scary stories do you know start this way? But one of the greatest monster tales ever written really did happen this way!
"The Great Meddler"
Who was the "Great Meddler?"
"Buddy"
The idea of dogs as "man's best friend" is not new, but the idea of dogs being "man's eyes" is.
"My Dogg"
Many people are unaware that Lewis and Clark's Expedition also included a four-footed adventurer--Seaman--Meriwether Lewis's dog. Meet Seaman and learn about his adventures with the Corps of Discovery!
"Young Hans"
Sigmund Freud was a creative and inventive doctor who introduced the new science of "psychoanalysis" to the world. His work and thought made possible the systematic study of the mind and how it works. In this particular case, Freud, with the help of a five-year-old boy, further unveils the mysteries of the unconscious.
"Doctor of the Mind"
Sigmund Freud was an inventive and courageous physician who broke new ground in the treatment of the mentally ill. Why is he considered to be the "father of modern pyschoanalysis?"
"Amrika"
Many peoples from around the world have made the United States their home. They have brought with them their distinctive customs, languages, beliefs, and cultures. Among the more recent and overlooked arrivals have been Muslims from the Arab world. As part of Suite 101's "Beauty of Islam" event, we take a look at the Muslim people's fascinating history in the United States.
The Last Orphan Trains
For over 70 years the orphan trains carried close to 150,000 children to new homes throughout the country. But by 1930, changing laws and changing attitudes saw the end of this most unique program.
Westward Ho! All Aboard the Orphan Train
What were the orphan trains? Find out about some of America's youngest emigrants who traveled to points unknown in search of a new life.
"Street Arabs"
In the mid-to-late nineteenth century, New York City was dealing with a very special problem--the plight of homeless children. Read how one man's vision was the start of a most unusual program for children.
A Tale of Two Countries
National symbols and holidays are just two ways in which nations celebrate their history. Read on and learn about the history behind some of the more famous American and French national symbols.
"Men Are Born Free"
On August 27, 1789 delegates to the French National Assembly had finally come to terms over an important document. Learn how a very small piece of paper helped keep the spirit of revolution alive and caused a king to lose his head.
"Mr. Jefferson's Assignment"
The Declaration of Independence has been called by some the "birth certificate" of the United States. It also stands as one of the first documents that embodied many of the ideals of the Enlightenment. Interested in finding out the story behind this most important and revolutionary document? Start here!
"The Age of Enlightenment"
Many historians consider the eighteenth century philosophical movement the "Age of Enlightenment" to be one of the most influential periods in history. Find out how this movement's legacy influenced an "Age of Revolution" and remains important to us even today.
The House the Mouse Built--Part II
How many electricians does it take to change a light bulb at Disneyland? Who are the "sweepers"? And what exactly is that mechanic doing with a stethoscope? Read on and find out!
The House the Mouse Built--Part 1
Find out how a mouse helped a man with a dream.
"Amusing the Millions"
Long before Disneyland, Busch Gardens, and Six Flags there was Coney Island, THE American amusement park.
"Mechanized Thrill Machines"
Where did the merry-go-round come from? What do large ice slides in Russia have to do with today's rollercoasters? And why do people love to ride them?
"Pleasure Gardens"
Millions of Americans will be flocking to one of the many amusement parks found in the United States. Read on and learn about the orgins of one of today's most popular forms of entertainment.
"Never Forget"
We often have more questions than answers in learning about the Holocaust. But one thing we must never do is forget. Read and see how "names and faces" become testimony to the Holocaust.
"The Hidden Children"
While many children died in the concentration camps, others escaped the Nazis by going into hiding. But the terror was of a different kind. Others spent their childhood working for the many resistance groups fighting against the Nazis. Meet some of these children and listen to their amazing stories.
"The End of the World"
During the years 1933-1945, more than one million children--from tiny babies to teenagers died as a result of the Holocaust. Many of them were held as prisoners in the concentration camps, where they faced death on a daily basis.
"Enemies of the State"
During the period 1933-1945, six million men, women, and children were murdered as "enemies of the state," part of Adolf Hitler's "Final Solution." Their crime? They were Jewish. Why did this horrible event occur?
Did He or Didn't He? That Is The Question!
Who did write all those plays and sonnets? Was it really Willliam Shakespeare? Or was it somebody else? Read and see why this debate still continues to stir controversy.
A History of Shakespeare's Globe Theatre
In the fall of 1989 archaeologists digging in London found what they believed to be the ruins of the historic theater, the Globe.
Shakespeare's World
See how playwright William Shakespeare drew on events, people, and ideas to create his own works.
"Young Will"
William Shakespeare's early life is a bit of a mystery. Historians, however, have pieced together events in his life that provide some interesting and important clues to young William's future.
"First" Ladies
Some of the bravest women in our history were the "firsts" who broke boundaries to achieve their goals. For some the road was harder than for others. Because of their actions, it is now possible for succeeding generations of young women to have more choices in many different fields.
Samantha Smith: America's Youngest Cold War Ambassador
In 1983, eleven-year-old Samantha Smith made history with her now famous letter to Soviet president Yuri Andropov. At his invitation she visited the Soviet Union on a "journey for peace" where she met many young people. She became one of the most recognized children in the world as well as one of its most beloved ambassadors for peace. As part of Women's History Month, let's take a look at this young woman and her contributions.
Remember the Ladies: The Women's Rights National Historical Park
1998 marked the 150th anniversary of the First Womens' Rights Convention held in Seneca Falls, New York. This brief overview provides a description and history of the Women's Rights Historical Park located in Seneca Falls, New York, authorized in 1980, to preserve and protect those sites that played such a key role during the Convention.