Boom and Bust Exploring Bannack, Montana's Colorful Past

Students continue their examination of the Gold Rush in California. In groups, they use a map to examine the original sites of the towns and what happened to them. They work together to create a brochure for one of the towns and...

Students trace the stages of gold mining in California. They discuss the life of a gold miner and how the discovery of gold influenced towns and cities in California during the 1949 Gold Rush.

Students study who Henry Plummer was in relation to the history of Bannack, Montana. They examine his role as sheriff, what types of crime he dealt with and participate in a mock trial to determine if his hanging was justified.

Latvia is a country of contrasts. While evidence of the Soviet era is ingrained in the landscape—including ghost towns—the Baltic state has embraced its history. A video resource showcases its culture, which includes its darker past, and...

Students analyze data and form a mental picture of the make up of a gold rush town. They explain social life in a gold rush town. They use online sources to see paintings of camp life and read accounts of miners' lives.

Students participate in a varity of activities surrounding "gold." They explore the science, myths, and legends about gold and conduct a debate over the environmental problems created by gold mining in a small small mining town.

The allure of getting rich quick by finding gold or silver was just a dream for most prospectors. Read about the gold and silver rushes that usually ended up enriching the mining industry, not the miner. Find out about the make-up of the...

Students watch a film about the town of Libby, Montana and how they were exposed to attic insulation that contained asbestos. Using the internet, they research the Environmental Protection Agency's guidelines for this type of insulation...

Students explore the impact of the Klondike Gold Rush on the development of Skagway, Alaska. Lesson can be used in units on western expansion, late 19th and early 20th-century commerce, and urban history.

Middle schoolers disucss the role the tourist industry played in popular perceptions of cowboys and Indians. They discuss the image of cowboys, as it is presented in fashion and contemporary advertisements. Students read about a town in...