With the world’s largest economy, hundreds of overseas military bases, and leadership positions in various international institutions, the United States is an undeniable global power. But this was not always the case. In this multimedia resource, learn how domestic expansion and three wars—the Spanish-American War, World War I, and World War II—transformed the United States’ standing in the world.
What Kinds of Governments Exist?
How governments interpret, prioritize, and grapple with pillars of modern society—for instance, security, freedom, and prosperity—determines the kinds of policies they enact. In this multimedia resource, explore the differences between democracies and autocracies, communism and capitalism, and right and left leaning ideologies.
What Is the National Security Council?
The National Security Council is a group of top advisors tasked with providing guidance on foreign policy matters and implementing the president’s decisions. Learn how the president’s advisors protect U.S. national security and help with foreign policy decision-making and coordination across the executive branch.
What Is Government?
Governments have been around for almost four thousand years. Throughout that time, they have shared the same central function: to lead and protect their people. Despite that similarity, governments do not all look or act the same way. This video explores what government is and to what extent your voice is heard by those in power.
What Roles Do Congress and the Executive Branch Play in U.S. Foreign Policy?
This Council on Foreign Relations Education resource helps students understand what the Constitution says about foreign policy. Students explore how the powers of Congress and the president protect and advance the country’s interests abroad. Through infographics, charts, and case studies, students will learn how the balance of power between these branches of government might look different in theory and practice.
Civic Engagement and How Students Can Get Involved
What rights and abilities do you have when it comes to advocating for issues you believe in? Use the lesson plan to discuss civic engagement and the role citizens play in making their voices heard.
History of Juneteenth and Why It Became a National Holiday
Students will explore and discuss the history and context around the Juneteenth holiday. Topics examined include the history of racial injustice in the U.S., the Civil War and the limitations of the Emancipation Proclamation. Additionally, students will be encouraged to explore the modern significance of Juneteenth and its long-term impact.
Learn How to Volunteer at Your Local Election Center
Who are poll workers? And what do they do? Learn how you can take part in the democratic process as a poll worker!
Lesson Plan: Political Parties: Two is Company, Three’s a Crowd
Students explore the two-party system and why it’s been so difficult for third parties to make it. The class then break into groups to study three U.S. elections with major third party candidates: the 1912, 1992, and 2000 elections.
How2Internet: Use Media Literacy Skills to Navigate the Misinformation Highway
Students will use media literacy skills to navigate through the perils of the land of online misinformation with the Teen Fact Checking Network, and then analyze their own social media platforms to see if they may be stuck in an echo chamber.