This curated set of US history lesson plans, units, and C3-style inquiries is designed to help you incorporate the themes of democracy and freedom into your US history course.

These resources introduce voices not often included in textbooks, examine historic and ongoing injustices, and explore the lived experiences of many Americans. Primary sources throughout the collection highlight the work of those in our country who have demanded greater freedom and expanded civil and human rights.

Collection Essential Question: What do democracy and freedom mean in US history and in our society today?

U.S. History is designed for a two-semester American history sequence. It is traditional in coverage, following a roughly chronological outline, and using a balanced approach that includes political, economic, social, and cultural developments. At the same time, the book includes a number of innovative and interactive features designed to enhance student learning. Instructors can also customize the book, adapting it to the approach that works best in their classroom.

By the end of this section, you will be able to:

Describe Lincoln’s plan to restore the Union at the end of the Civil War
Discuss the tenets of Radical Republicanism
Analyze the success or failure of the Thirteenth Amendment

An extensive look at Andrew Johnson and his administration. Includes a biography, information on his cabinet, and most importantly, an essay on the impact and legacy of his presidency. Don't miss reading this.

An in-depth analysis of the domestic policies and problems that Rutherford B. Hayes faced as president. Read about the end of Reconstruction, Hayes' economic policy, his troubles with a Democratic majority in the Congress, and his attempts at civil service reform.

A comprehensive biography of Ulysses S. Grant including information about his life before his presidency, detailed essays on various aspects of presidency, brief biographies of members of his cabinet, and copies of his presidential papers.

A broad overview of the history, structure, and accomplishments of the United Nations. Students review an overview of the institution and develop brief presentations in a group activity following a set of discussion questions.

John Adams' response in this critical essay to the definition of the "British Empire", not an empire as other European monarchies, but a republic by constitution. Link to "Massachusettensis" for a Biography of Daniel Leonard.

A document on Reconstruction written by Fredrick Douglass. He argues particularly for voting rights for blacks as the most necessary step to avoid the kinds of state's rights conflicts that brought about the Civil War.

An excellent distillation of the many issues addresed in the Reconstuction period in the South in the twelve years after the end of the Civll War.

The complete text of "The Rights of Man," a document Thomas Paine wrote to defend the French Revolution. Contains personal prefaces written to George Washington and to English and French readers; text of French preface has been translated into English.

On this site you can view an original copy of the document and and also an easy to read version of the complete text. There is also a brief summary of the history behind the bill.