These two-hour-long sessions feature deep dives into topics, eras, and special themes, led by Institute staff and the staff and faculty at outstanding historical institutions. These sessions are free and open to participants across all of our Summer PD programs, both online and in person, as well as to K–12 teachers.
Special Topics in History
The Civil War, Slavery, and Emancipation
June 26, 11:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. ET
We will delve into the rising tension that led to war using the American Civil War Museum’s Impending Crisis exhibit and then examine the stories of enslaved people within the Confederate president’s house to see what they can tell us about the war, emancipation, and its aftermath.
Presented in partnership with The American Civil War Museum
In Their Own Words: Oral History and the Kennedy Assassination
July 10, 1:00 p.m.–3:00 p.m. ET
Discover the Oral History Project at The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza and experience November 22, 1963, through the firsthand accounts of those who were there. Then take a behind-the-scenes look at the process of oral history and learn helpful tips on how to capture and utilize these extraordinary primary resources.
Presented in partnership with The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza
Actions Rather than Words: Emma Lazarus, Activism, and Citizenship
July 29, 1:00 p.m.–3:00 p.m. ET
This session will explore the ways in which late nineteenth- and early twentieth-century debates about gender, religion, immigration, race, and labor engaged New Yorkers and other Americans—and how they, in turn, responded from atop soapboxes, on picket lines, and by authoring articles and other writings to further their causes. Using Emma Lazarus as a starting point, educators will be given the tools to help students identify political themes and activist movements, starting in the nineteenth century and moving into the twentieth century.
Presented in partnership with the American Jewish Historical Society