US National Archives
National Archives: Congress Debates the Fate of the Nation
Students will use a copy of the Wilmot Proviso and a map used by President Polk in an address to Congress to debate whether territory acquired through the Mexican War should be free or slave states. This debate in Congress served as a...
US National Archives
National Archives: Exploring the Western Frontier With the Records of Congress
Learners will analyze the impact of the frontier on American life and the role Congress played in settling the frontier. Included are worksheets, Turner's Thesis, and reflection questions. Primary sources provided are petitions for...
US National Archives
National Archives: Congress, the Great Society, and Today
Students will study the Great Society and the role Congress played in shaping it. This lesson plan focuses on small group research to draw conclusions on the historical significance of each aspect of The Great Society Congress. Sources...
US National Archives
National Archives: Congress at Work: Presidential Veto
The veto process is an integral part of our checks and balances. Introduce the power of the presidential veto and override to a class using an example from President Nixon's administration. Materials include the Constitution, worksheets,...
US National Archives
National Archives: Congress Represented in Political Cartoons
Students will understand Congress through examining political cartoons from different eras. Included is an ebook by Clifford Berryman containing political cartoons [PDF], worksheets, materials, and reflection questions.
US National Archives
National Archives: Congress Protects the Right to Vote
Young scholars will draw conclusions regarding actions taken by Congress when passing the Voting Rights Act of 1965. They will weigh the balance of power between the federal and state governments when protecting the right to vote....
US National Archives
National Archives: Understanding Federalism
This comprehensive lesson plan will introduce students to Federalism and its role in civic life. There are five themes of Federalism each with a separate activity. Worksheets, answer keys, discussion questions, and optional activities...
US National Archives
National Archives: Was Reconstruction a Revolution?
Students will use primary sources to answer the question "Was Reconstruction a Revolution?". Included are discussion questions, worksheets, primary sources, extension activities, and additional resources. [PDF]
US National Archives
National Archives: Congress and Harriet Tubman's Claim for a Pension
Harriet Tubman is best known for the Underground Railroad, but she also served critical roles in our federal government during the Civil War and requested a federal pension for her work. Congress debated whether or not to extend to her a...