Weird History
How Hawaii Was Stolen by a Fruit Juice Company
Why did the US want Hawaii? With even a glance at its sensual beaches and lush jungles, it's no surprise that the scenic islands have always been desirable. But as with any story of settlement, the development of Hawaii didn't come about...
Wonderscape
Filibusters: Stalling Tactics in the Senate
This video explains the concept of filibusters in the United States Senate. It covers how senators use filibustering to delay or block bills, the historical background of the tactic, and the role of cloture in ending debates. Learn about...
Wonderscape
Andrew Johnson and the Rise of Black Codes
This video examines President Andrew Johnson's controversial role during the Reconstruction Era. After Lincoln's death, Johnson's policies, including overturning the "40 acres" order and vetoing civil rights legislation, shaped the...
Wonderscape
Hiram Revels: The First Black U.S. Senator
This video explores the life and achievements of Hiram Revels, the first Black person to serve in the U.S. Congress. Learn about his journey from a free-born pastor to a Civil War chaplain and political leader in Mississippi, and his...
Wonderscape
The Legacy of Wounded Knee and Ongoing Indigenous Struggles
This video explores the 1973 occupation of Wounded Knee by the American Indian Movement, highlighting the continued struggles of Indigenous communities. It discusses efforts like the Remove the Stain Act and the unresolved issue of the...
Wonderscape
Jefferson’s Dilemma: Reacting to the Louisiana Purchase
This video explores President Thomas Jefferson's reaction to the Louisiana Purchase, from his initial excitement over doubling the size of the United States to his concerns about constitutional authority. It details how Jefferson...
Wonderscape
Charles Lindbergh: From Student to Aviator
This video explores the early life of Charles Lindbergh, highlighting his journey from studying mechanical engineering at the University of Wisconsin to pursuing his passion for aviation. It covers his transition to a pilot, his role as...
Wonderscape
The General Election and Voting Process
During the general election, presidential candidates and their running mates campaign across the country to gain voter support. Election Day is held on the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November, with voters casting ballots...
Wonderscape
The Structure and Role of the Senate
Discover how the Senate, with two senators from each state, plays a key role in the legislative process. Learn about the responsibilities of the Vice President as the president of the Senate and how the Majority and Minority Leaders...
Wonderscape
How a Bill Becomes a Law: From Idea to Legislation
This video explains the process of how an idea becomes a law in the United States. It walks through the steps, from everyday citizens coming up with ideas, to members of Congress writing bills, and how the bill is introduced in either...
Wonderscape
The Role and Powers of the U.S. Supreme Court
This video explains the powers of the U.S. Supreme Court, focusing on its role in judicial review and interpreting the Constitution. Learn how the Court checks the powers of other government branches and the limits placed on the Court's...
Wonderscape
The Early History of the U.S. Supreme Court
This video explores the creation and development of the U.S. Supreme Court, from its establishment in 1787 to the Judiciary Act of 1869, which set the number of justices at nine. Learn about the court's early challenges, its evolving...
Wonderscape
Checks and Balances: How the US Government Limits Power
This video explains the system of checks and balances that ensures no branch of government becomes too powerful. It shows how Congress, the president, and the Supreme Court can limit each other's authority, including the ability to...
Wonderscape
The Judicial Branch: Understanding the US Court System
This video covers the role of the judicial branch, which interprets the laws of the United States. It explains the structure of the federal courts, including the Supreme Court, and discusses how justices are appointed for life to handle...
Wonderscape
The Executive Branch: Powers and Responsibilities
This video explains the executive branch of the US government, led by the president, who ensures that laws are followed. It covers the qualifications to be president, the role of cabinet members, and the president’s duties, such as...
Wonderscape
Understanding the Legislative Branch: The Senate and the House of Representatives
This video explains the two sections of the US Congress: the Senate and the House of Representatives. It outlines the differences between them, including how senators and representatives are elected, their responsibilities, and the...
Wonderscape
The Fugitive Slave Act and the Compromise of 1850
This video examines the Fugitive Slave Act of 1850 and its role in the growing tensions between Northern and Southern states. Viewers will also learn about the influence of Uncle Tom’s Cabin on the abolitionist movement and the rising...
Wonderscape
The Missouri Compromise and Rising Tensions Before the Civil War
This video explores the events leading up to the Civil War, focusing on the Missouri Compromise of 1820 and its role in heightening tensions between Northern and Southern states over slavery. Viewers will also learn about Nat Turner's...
Wonderscape
The Twenty-Third Amendment: Voting Rights for Washington, D.C.
This video explains the Twenty-Third Amendment, ratified in 1961, which grants the residents of Washington, D.C. the right to vote in presidential elections. Learn how this amendment provides limited electoral votes for the capital city...
Wonderscape
The Official Selma to Montgomery March of 1965
This video covers the historic third march from Selma to Montgomery on March 21, 1965, led by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. With protection from the National Guard, over 3,000 marchers set out on a 54-mile journey that grew to 25,000 people...
Wonderscape
The Twenty-Fourth Amendment: Ending Poll Taxes in Voting
This video explores the Twenty-Fourth Amendment, ratified in 1964, which abolished poll taxes as a requirement for voting in federal elections. Learn how this amendment was a key victory of the Civil Rights movement, aimed at removing...
Wonderscape
Understanding the Twenty-First Amendment and the End of Prohibition
This video explains the Twenty-First Amendment, which repealed the Eighteenth Amendment and ended Prohibition in 1933. Discover how this amendment allowed states to set their own alcohol regulations and why Congress used state...
Wonderscape
Samuel Morse’s Later Years and Legacy
This video covers the final chapter of Samuel Morse’s life, highlighting his successful demonstration of the telegraph to Congress, the famous first message sent between Washington, D.C., and Baltimore, and the rapid expansion of...
Wonderscape
The Role of the Supreme Court
Discover the critical role of the Supreme Court in interpreting the Constitution and determining the legality of laws through judicial review. Learn how Supreme Court justices are appointed, how they review cases, and how their decisions...