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.
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!
Laws, Norms, and Democratic Backsliding
Democracies around the world are under siege—not by foreign invaders but by domestic leaders who are weakening their countries’ institutions that protect political freedoms and civil liberties. That trend is known as democratic backsliding. This multimedia resource explores the principles that underpin democracy and the countries in which they are under threat.
Down-Ballot Voting and the Role of Local Elections
Students will analyze the role of state and local government and the merits of candidates and ballot measures in their local elections.
Meet Richard St. George – Theatrical Performance
Developed for the Museum’s exhibit, Cost of Revolution: The Life and Death of an Irish Soldier, this 20-minute performance provides viewers with an opportunity to consider the opinions and experiences of someone who chose to fight for the British against uprisings in both North America and Ireland. Learners can also explore the evergreen online exhibit
Through Their Eyes – Teacher Resource Guide
Built to support the Through Their Eyes core museum student experience, as well as use of the Virtual Tour of the Museum of the American Revolution, this teacher resource guide features modular activities of varying lengths, types, and purposes to encourage student thinking and discussion. High quality images, worksheets, and more engage students around themes
Virtual Tour of the Museum of the American Revolution
Use this virtual tour of the core galleries of the Museum of the American Revolution to explore the dynamic late 18th century through four guiding questions: How do people become Revolutionaries? How did the Revolution Survive its darkest hour? How Revolutionary was the war? What kind of nation did the Revolution create? Along the way,
Season of Independence – Online Interactive Map and Timeline
Mirroring an in-museum resource, this interactive online map and timeline tracks statements of support for independence across the 13 American colonies in rebellion over time, while placing those colonies in larger geographic context. Throughout, it presents the voices of those who supported independence, disagreed, and hoped to avoid a war altogether. Use the accompanying classroom
Black Founders: The Forten Family of Philadelphia – Virtual Exhibit Tour
During the Revolutionary War, James Forten – a young man of African descent born free in Philadelphia – served on a privateer ship to support the Revolutionary cause. Afterwards, he and his family fought to encourage the new nation to live up to its revolutionary ideals. Use the materials in this online exhibit, supported by