The Compromise of 1850 attempted to settle sectional disagreements about slavery in the volatile pre-Civil War period. The compromise, actually a series of bills, had an enormous impact on the nation's slow march to civil war. See...

Outlines the agricultural differences between the Upper and Lower South of Texas prior to the Civil War.

Discusses where different southern states stood on the issue of secession prior to the Civil War.

Here's a map showing the Texas & Pacific Railway. Click on link to get larger version which shows the route across Texas as well as an inset which shows how the railway connected to other railroads in the U.S.

Lone Star Junction identifies an extensive list of high-profile Texans prior to 1900. A chart informs readers what general role in Texas history each person was involved in from Texas Revolution, Indian Wars, Civil War, and the...

The very name of William Quantrill and his raiders struck fear into the people of Kansas, but it turns out he was hated by both Union and Confederate because of his bloodthirsty ways. Read this article from the Encyclopedia of Oklahoma...

Interactive and animated maps and timelines of historical events and time periods in American history from pre-European times until post-World War II.

By clicking "View opening movie," students hear "The Yellow Rose of Texas" and view a short slide presentation of flags, weapons, soldiers on the battlefield, camp, and Civil War heroes. For older students, the video could be played...

Read about the development of free education for African Americans following the emancipation of this enslaved population. This article focuses on schools in Texas, including what is now known as Texas A&M University. Includes a...

Article reviews several conditions of American society that sowed the seeds of civil war, particularly slavery and sectional conflict.

This is an impressive history of the introduction of beef to the Great Plains region complete with videos, photos, and lesson plans.