Take off with history! Welcome to November 1! Historical brains engaged…commence ignition! World History: 1512: Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel is open for public viewing. It took over 4 years to complete and covered 12000 sq. feet. Look at the year. Make a list of 10 things that make this achievement even greater. American History: 1952: America explodes the first hydrogen bomb. It has greater power than the atomic bomb which was dropped on Japan in 1945. Why do you think the world begin to discuss stopping the construction of this type of weapon for all nations? Word of the day: Human-environmental interaction: As one of the five themes of geography, we know that humans impact their world. Contrast how we support and harm the world in which we live. Bonus Corner: “The release of atomic energy has not created a new problem. It has merely made more urgent the necessity of solving an existing one.” --Albert Einstein What do you think is the existing problem? Take off with history! Welcome to November 2! Historical brains engaged…commence ignition! World History: 1721: Peter the Great of Russia is elevated from czar to emperor by the Russian Senate. What do you think this gesture, by this legislative branch, signifies? American History: 1948: In the greatest upset in American presidential elections, Harry S. Truman defeats Thomas Dewey by just over two million votes. What kind of events have you noticed that sway an election from one side to the other? Describe methods that are ethical and those that seem “sketchy”. Word of the day: Electoral college: The system we use for presidential elections. The people vote and the electors vote as the majority of their state votes. There is debate that we should go back to popular vote. What is the justification for both systems? Bonus Corner: Who am I? • I was a frontiersman. • I was born in this day in 1734. • I killed a bear when I was only 10. • I was known for my coons skin cap. Take off with history! Welcome to November 3! Historical brains engaged…commence ignition! World History: 1957: The Soviet Union sends the first animal into space. Laika is a stray who “volunteered” for space duty. The electrodes, attached to his body , sent data back as to how space effects the body. He later died in space when the batteries keeping him alive ran out. Reactions? American History: 1939: President Franklin Roosevelt urges Congress to revise the Neutrality Act so that the United States can sell weapons to England and France. How might the world be different if we did not provide arms to our allies? Word of the day: Neutrality: Maintaining an objective position and refusing to side with either side in a conflict. What are the ups and downs of remaining neutral? Bonus Corner: Andre Malraux, born in 1901 writes: “Man is not what he thinks he is, he is what he hides. “ Support or refute his inference. Take off with history! Welcome to November 4! Historical brains engaged…commence ignition! World History: 1922: Howard Carter finds the entrance to King Tutankhamen tomb. It took until the 26th to actually enter the room where his gold sarcophagus was sitting, in perfect condition. What do you think archaeologists were most thrilled to learn? American History: 1879: A California dentist named John Beers patents a gold tooth that can be glued rather than hammered in. Personally, hammering in my mouth has never appealed to me! Create a mini advertising poster that features his new innovation. Word of the day: Interest groups: Person or a group that want certain decisions to reflect favorably to their priority. Many interest groups wanted King Tut’s coffin for their purposes. What interest groups can you think of that would want this treasure and what be their reasons? Bonus Corner: Will Rogers , who was born in 1879, penned: “Don't let yesterday use up too much of today.” Translate his words in your own. Take off with history! Welcome to November 5! Historical brains engaged…commence ignition! World History: 1854: Florence Nightingale arrived in Turkey with a group of nurses who were there to tend the wounded. Nightingale has long been a symbol of service, especially in the medical field. In what ways do you “serve” others? American History: 1862: During the Minnesota Uprising, many Anglos were raped and killed by 300 Santee Sioux. The natives were to be hung for their crimes but Lincoln pardoned all but 39 due to our mistreatment of them. Present arguments for and against Lincoln’s action. Word of the day: Service: The act of doing for others without expectation of financial gain. If you have a million dollars to give to service organizations, which ones would you deem most worthwhile, and how much would you give to each? Bonus Corner: 1941: Art Garfunkel (born on this day)sang with Paul Simon and they were tremendously successful. Art said, about his talent, “I did have a lucky thing going on there in my throat.” --Art Garfunkel What is your lucky talent? Take off with history! Welcome to November 6! Historical brains engaged…commence ignition! World History: 355: Julian was made Caesar (successor in waiting) and became emperor in 361. He was a pagan and hated Christianity. Why would a ruler be opposed to a faith that worshipped one God instead of many? American History: 1861: Jefferson Davis is elected president of the Confederate States of America. He acted as the governing agent for the South in the American Civil War. The South was fighting to be their own nation. Predict 10 things that would be different today if the South became their own nation. Word of the day: Polytheism: The worship of many gods. Many early people were polytheistic and “saw” god in all things and events. Today, most people of faith believe in one god. Why do you think most made the transition to one god? Bonus Corner: What was my claim to fame? • I was born in 1861. • My name was James Naismith. • My invention is enjoyed by millions. • You are welcome anytime in my court. • Shoot, watch your step when you dribble! Take off with history! Welcome to November 7! Historical brains engaged…commence ignition! World History: 305 B.C.E: Ptolemy becomes king of Egypt. Egypt has a rich and impressive ancient history. What do you find most interesting from that period of time and location? American History: 1916: Jeannette Ranking is the first woman to become a member of congress. She was from Montana. Formulate a list of 5-6 challenges she would have to overcome. Word of the day: Prehistoric: Before history was written down. How do we know what happened if history was not recorded? What would be appealing and not so appealing about that time in history? Bonus Corner: Who am I? • I was born on this day in 1867. • I was a physicist and chemist. • I coined “radioactive”(discovering radium). • I was the first female professor at Sorbonne in Paris. Take off with history! Welcome to November 8! Historical brains engaged…commence ignition! World History: 1519: Spaniard Herman Cortes enters the Aztec city of Tenochtitlan. Montezuma welcomes him, thinking he is a god. What about Cortes, in your opinion, Might make him godlike ? American History: 1960: John F. Kennedy becomes president. He was the first catholic in the office and the youngest president at age 42. Why do you think most of our presidents have been older? Word of the day: Tariff: Charges on goods brought in from other countries. Why do we often have a tariff on products from outside of the United States? Bonus Corner: Who am I? • My first name is Edmund. • I was an astronomer. • I grew up in England . • I spotted a comet that 76 years later, came back and they gave it my name. Take off with history! Welcome to November 9! Historical brains engaged…commence ignition! World History: 1938: Kristallnacht begins. Hitler begins moving 30,000 men to camps, burning down or destroying Jewish owned businesses(which the Jewish community ad to pay for!). Why do you think other non Jewish community members did not intervene? American History: 1965: The biggest power outage ever occurred on this day in New York City at rush hour(and several neighboring states)! Describe what consequences this kind of event could triggered. Word of the day: Diaspora: The spreading of the Jewish population throughout the world. The Jews have been persecuted throughout history. Why do you think they have been targets? Bonus Corner: Carl Sagan, author of the Cosmos series and space researcher, writes: “Somewhere, something incredible is waiting to be known.” Sounds exciting! What discoveries do you hope are explored and explained in your lifetime? Take off with history! Welcome to November 10! Historical brains engaged…commence ignition! World History: 1871: David Livingston, a Scottish missionary to Africa, was thought dead. Henry Stanley, a journalist, went in search and when he found him, Stanley said, “Livingston, I presume?” This famous line was told worldwide. What do you find interesting/unusual/newsworthy about it? American History: 1960: America’s first nuclear power plant is built in Rowe, Massachusetts. We currently have 65 of them. What are the advantages and fears of this type of energy? Word of the day: Law of supply: The rule that if more is needed, more will be created but not until there is need. This is the condition with nuclear power. It was not developed until there was a need. What other developments fall into these parameters? Bonus Corner: What organization began on this day in 1775? HINTS: • We am military by nature. • We are the best of the best. • We brave where no others will brave! • The few, the proud, ……….providing the enemies of America the opportunity to die for their country since 1775! Take off with history! Welcome to November 11! Historical brains engaged…commence ignition! World History: 1918: At 11 a.m. on 11/11, World War II came to an end. In the aftermath, 9 million soldiers and 5 million civilians lost their lives. Why do you think the civilian death toll was so high? American History: 1921: The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier was established. It symbolically represents soldiers who, following a conflict such as the First World War, died during that battle and their bodies were never identified. It is a privilege to serve on patrol of this national shrine. Why do you think this job is such an honor? Word of the day: Civilian: This term refers to non military persons. Civilians play a key role when their country is at war. What contributions do you think civilians make to the war effort? Bonus Corner: What famous actor was born on this day in 1974? • I have always loved film. • If want an autograph, “Catch Me if you • Can”. • I was not named after a Teenage Mutant • Ninja Turtle! • In my most famous role, my ship sunk! Take off with history! Welcome to November 12! Historical brains engaged…commence ignition! World History: 1941: During World War II, ski troops are used for the first time by the Russians. Predict what were the advantages and disadvantages of this type of warfare. American History: 1867: Serious talks begin on this day at Fort Laramie, Wyoming in regards to solutions for the Native American “problem”. Create a brief news broadcast as if you were reporting on this story. Word of the day: Negotiation: The process by which two parties each make compromises so a solution to their conflict is resolved. Has the situation with the Native Americans been resolved? Evaluate the current Circumstances from your perspective. Bonus Corner: 1990: What was innovated on this day? • I am used constantly today. • I have created a global village (instantaneous communication). • I have transformed our world and created some unique problems. • I am often surfed but no water is involved. Take off with history! Welcome to November 13! Historical brains engaged…commence ignition! World History: 938: The Vietnamese defeat the Chinese and ended 1,000 years of Chinese control. Imagine that your country has been governed by another for 1,000 years. Formulate what your country would do with that new freedom. American History: 1789: George Washington, the first President of the United States, completed his first tour of the country by stagecoach. Pen the dialogue he and Martha possibly shared of his experiences. Word of the day: Nationalism: Pride in one’s own nation. The United States has a great deal of nationalistic pride but we also disagree with the actions of our government. Can a citizen be proud of their country but also criticize it? Justify your answer. Bonus Corner: 1982: What am I? • I was dedicated on this day. • I help people remember those we have lost. • People view me with great silence. • I am a movable wall which now journeys around the country. Take off with history! Welcome to November 14! Historical brains engaged…commence ignition! World History: 1770: James Bruce, an explorer from England, reached Lake Tana, the source of the Nile in modern day Ethiopia. Why do think he thought it was significant to find the source? American History: 1882: In Tombstone, Arizona (a perfect location for the following!), Billy The Kid was shot and killed by Buckskin Leslie. Except for pizza, Tombstone seems like a bad name! Create an explanation for the name as if you were one of the town’s founding members. Word of the day: Natural resources: Those materials, created by nature, that can be used for products or services. The Nile is an excellent natural resource for the Egyptians. Brainstorm the uses of a major river. Bonus Corner: “It is better to fail in originality than to succeed in imitation.” --Herman Melville Melville’s first book, Moby Dick, was a major failure in 1851. It wasn’t until later that it become a classic. In examining the quote above, explain how he viewed his writing. Take off with history! Welcome to November 16! Historical brains engaged…commence ignition! World History: 1824: The Murray River in Australia is discovered by Hamilton Hume. It is Australia’s longest river at 1,609 miles. How would the Australians of the west use this resource? (Infer from what you know about Australia). American History: 1798: Kentucky was the first state to nullify the Alien and Sedition acts which would have greatly extended federal power. All states want a certain amount of autonomy. What are characteristics about your state that make it unique and would require different rules? Word of the day: Nation state: The role of a state to serve as an independent governing agent. The constitution determined in 1787 that the federal and state governments would share authority. What consequences would you predict if states had complete authority? Bonus Corner: What is Shigeru Miyamoto (who was born on this day in 1952) known for? • I am very fond of gaming! • The name of the company, and also the product, means “leave luck to heaven”. • Our company created Game Boy! • Super Mario Bros. was our biggest success! Take off with history! Welcome to November 15! Historical brains engaged…commence ignition! World History: 1957: Nikita Khrushchev, the leader of Russia, challenged the United States to shooting contest but instead using guns, his suggestion was rockets. Create a cartoon of what this “conflict” might look like. American History: 1864: General William Sherman leaves Atlanta, Georgia , having defeated the Confederates. The city was almost completely destroyed by fire. Imagine the devastation to the people of Atlanta. Write a diary entry as if you were one who witnessed the tragedy. Word of the day: Physical environment: The natural world in which we live. Think of the natural elements where you live. In what ways do you or others utilize them? In what ways does your community protect or abuse them? Bonus Corner: 1806: Zebulon Pike sees a mountain peak in the distance and is impressed. The peak is later named Pike’s Peak. Pike’s Peak is one of the 50 peaks in Colorado over 14,000 feet in elevation. There is a road and a train that goes to the top but many still climb it. What have you climbed or hiked (or would like to) that you see as an accomplishment? Take off with history! Welcome to November 17! Historical brains engaged…commence ignition! World History: 1558: With the death of Queen Mary 1, The new queen is Elizabeth 1. Elizabeth changed the course of British history and established a climate where persons such as Shakespeare thrived. Jot down what you know about Shakespeare. American History: 1941: On this day, the ambassador to Japan cabled the State Department that there was a potential for a surprise attack against America at Pearl Harbor. It was ignored. December 7th, the ambassador’s words became a reality. Why do you think the U.S. Government did not take the warning seriously? Word of the day: Ambassador: A representative to a foreign country, often sent to create warm relationships. What would be interesting and what would be dangerous about being an ambassador? Bonus Corner: Award winning pitcher, Tom Seaver (who was born on this day in 1944) said: “In baseball, my theory is to strive for consistency, not to worry about the numbers. If you dwell on statistics you get shortsighted, if you aim for consistency, the numbers will be there at the end.” Do you agree or disagree? Explain. Take off with history! Welcome to November 18! Historical brains engaged…commence ignition! World History: 1307: On this day, the first telling of the story of William Tell (the father who shot an apple off of his son’s head with a crossbow for refusing to bow to the authorities). You are the son of William Tell and have been asked your take on the “apple” event. Describe this adventure with a new twist! American History: 1883: On this date, both America and Canada begin using 4 different time zones to end the confusion with the train schedules. What can you imagine were the reasons why time zones were established in the first place? Word of the day: Rebellion: To publicly go against the current authorities. This was what William Tell staged. What kinds of people are willing to rebel? Bonus Corner: George Gallup (born 1901) was a journalist who felt that opinions should be heard but also realized that a method needed to be created so that opinions could be translated into percentages. This became the Gallup Poll. What are the advantages of using percentages? Take off with history! Welcome to November 19! Historical brains engaged…commence ignition! World History: 1530: The “Edict of Worms” was enacted, banning Martin Luther’s ideas. His position was that people should worship God and did not need the church (an unpopular idea with the church at that time). Why do you think religious freedom is so valuable? American History: 1863: On this date, dedicating a cemetery, Abraham Lincoln delivered the Gettysburg Address. Although the speech was only 2 minutes, it became one of the most famous speeches of all time. Translate this portion of his speech: “-- and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth.” Word of the day: Freedom: The state of being without restrictions or limitations. Is freedom ever a bad idea? Detail your opinion. Bonus Corner: 1997: The McCaughey septuplets (that is the birth of 7 babies at one time!) were born. Imagine the shock of such a large instant family! Suppose that you have been given the task of naming them. Besides the days of the week, what would you propose their names should be? (There were 4 boys and 3 girls) Take off with history! Welcome to November 20! Historical brains engaged…commence ignition! World History: 1945: The Nuremberg Trials begin on this day and were held to prosecute (and convict) Nazi war criminals. The trials lasted 10 Months, with 17 convicted and 3 who were acquitted. It was estimate that 12-14 million persons were killed in concentration camps. Was justice served? Formulate a response. American History: 1820: A ship called the Essex was sunk by an 80 ton sperm whale and this event was the inspiration for a famed classic by Herman Melville. What was the name Of the book? You are a sailor on board. What were your last words? Word of the day: Justice: Fair treatment, not only for criminals, but also their victims. Do you feel our justice system is something to be proud of or does it need significant improvement? Validate your position. Bonus Corner: In 1866, what was patented for the first time? • I have my ups and downs! • I am hanging by a thread! • I use gravity and rotational energy! • Kids take me “round the world” and they can “walk the dog”. Take off with history! Welcome to November 21! Historical brains engaged…commence ignition! World History: 1871: As a stunt, Emilio Onra was “shot” from a catapult-type machine and became the first human cannonball. What creative comments can you imagine could have been said by a member of the audience? American History: 1620: The Mayflower Contract was developed and became the first governing document in the New World. What does the word “contract” imply? Word of the day: Leisure activities: Things that we chose to do when we are not working. How do you like to spend your leisure time? Bonus Corner: 1877: Thomas Edison made public his invention: the phonograph. For the first time, sound could be recorded and then played back. Make a list of the many recording devices that are available today. Take off with history! Welcome to November 22! Historical brains engaged…commence ignition! World History: 1497: Vasco de Gama, an explorer from Portugal, successfully sails around the Cape of Good Hope in South Africa (on his way To India). Why do you think so many famed and successful explorers from this time period came from either Spain or Portugal? American History: 1963: John F. Kennedy, the 36th president of the United States, was assassinated as he rode through Dallas, Texas in a convertible. We have since heightened all areas of security and we continue to strive for the continued safety of our leaders. Why are assassins of famous people often given more severe punishments? Is that fair? Word of the day: Commodity: Goods that are either sold or bartered (usually minerals and agricultural products). What products are mined or produced in your area that bring profit? Bonus Corner: “My fellow Americans, ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country.” --John F. Kennedy This was one of the president’s most memorable quotes. How does this change the way people traditionally view the government? Take off with history! Welcome to November 23! Historical brains engaged…commence ignition! World History: 1964: The catholic church abolished the use of Latin in its liturgy (the portion of church that is read together, sung or chanted). Why do you think it took so long for the church to reach this step? (Martin Luther criticized the church for using Latin exclusively back in the early 1500s). American History: 1948: Dr. Frank Back creates and patents the first zoom lens. This feature allows photographers to take pictures from afar and make them appear close. The Paparazzi of today use this lens style often. Do you think that they have the right or is it an invasion of privacy? Support your position. Word of the day: Incentives: Items that motivate people to action. Often incentives include money, status, force or self satisfaction. Think of five things you do and determine what is your incentive (in other words, why do you do it?)? Bonus Corner: “In the house in Beverly Hills where our four children grew up, living conditions were a few thousand times improved over the old tenement on New York's East 93rd Street we Marx Brothers called home.” --Harpo Marx What personal characteristics does a person possess who can rise above his childhood? Take off with history! Welcome to November 24! Historical brains engaged…commence ignition! World History: 1642: A man named Abel Tasman a new island and it was later named after him: Tasmania. Tasmania is home to many strange animals, the strangest would be the Tasmanian Devil. Looney Tunes also created a character with the same name. What was he like? American History: 1874: Barbed wire is patented on this day. This wire was strung for fencing and the barbs hindered animals from leaving (or others from getting in) an enclosure. It has been a staple throughout the west but barbed wire has been criticized has been inhumane. Does this take animal rites too far? Trace the key parts of your position. Word of the day: Innovation: A novel idea or product. Barbed wire was an innovation in 1874 but America is full of innovators. What innovations in your lifetime are you thankful for? Which ones are you less than thankful for? Bonus Corner: What’s in a mystery? In 1971, a man named D.B. Cooper hijacked a plane, got $200,000 in ransom and then parachuted out of the plane. A horrible thunderstorm was in progress over Washington state and no sign of him has ever been found. Create a fictionalized ending to this amazing event. Take off with history! Welcome to November 25! Historical brains engaged…commence ignition! World History: 1867: The originator of the Nobel Peace Prize (Alfred Nobel) patented something that was far from peaceful. What did he invent? American History: 1783: George Washington enters New York amidst cheers as the last of the British soldiers had officially pulled out. This marked the end of the Revolutionary War. Winning the war was one thing, beginning a new country was another. What challenges would the colonists of early America most certainly face? Word of the day: Abolition: The elimination of something (slavery, alcohol, etc.). Carrie Nation fought hard against those who wanted alcohol to remain readily available. What kinds of things are people crusading to be abolished in this time of history? Bonus Corner: 1846: Carrie Nation was a member of the woman’s temperance movement which was greatly opposed to alcohol. Carrie was especially destructive as she would go after bars with a hatchet. Scary! What might be a slogan she could live by? Be clever and rhymes are always fun! Take off with history! Welcome to November 26! Historical brains engaged…commence ignition! World History: 1862: An English mathematician is riding in a boat in route to a picnic with a friend and his three daughters. He is telling stories to keep the girls entertained. The story became Alice in Wonderland. What about this book is fun for young readers? American History: 1922: Charles Schulz, the creator of the Peanuts cartoon, was born on this day. He was quoted as saying: “Don't worry about the world coming to an end today. It is already tomorrow in Australia.” Interpret his words. Was he being cynical or humorous? Support you inferences. Word of the day: Revenue: Income. The days between the end of November until December 25th have historically been profitable days for most businesses. What do you see yourself doing to create revenue for your family as an adult? Bonus Corner: What was created on this day in 1941? • Let’s go on holiday! • I think we should have all of the family join us! • Let’s meet at my house! • Don’t be a turkey and not show up! (or I will make mincemeat out of you!) Take off with history! Welcome to November 27! Historical brains engaged…commence ignition! World History: 1826: John Walker, a British pharmacist sure was fired up! He created the first friction match that could strike a variety of surfaces and still ignite. What are the many uses of this invention? American History: 1924: On Thanksgiving, Macy’s decided to host a Thanksgiving day parade. With 250,000 in attendance and a boost in department store sales, Macy’s decided that it should become an annual event. What is the best parade you have ever seen and what made it incredible? Word of the day: Profit: The amount of money beyond expenses that a product generates. Many companies have learned how to increase their profits yearly. If you became an independent business person, what business would you get into in order to be profitable? Why? Bonus Corner: What famed rock legend am I? • I was born in 1942. • I was a phenomenal guitarist. • I often lived in a “Purple Haze” due to my drug use. • I died at age 28 from a drug overdose. • My initials are J.H. Take off with history! Welcome to November 28! Historical brains engaged…commence ignition! World History: 1582: William Shakespeare married his beloved, Anne Hathaway. She was 26 and he was only 18. What is the traditional age to marry in the United States? Why does the age to marry vary so much throughout the world? American History: 1922: The first skywriting was done over New York city. It became a quite popular Form of advertisement. Why do think This practice has become quite rare? Word of the day: Social contract: An agreement between individuals to protect and manage their welfare. Marriage could be said to be a social contract. If you made a social contract with your favorite cartoon character, what would be the terms of that contract? Bonus Corner: What was established in 1775 by the Second Continental Congress? • I am constantly on the water! • My name is also a bluish color. • My motto is, “A Global Force For Good!” • My university is in Annapolis, MD! Take off with history! Welcome to November 29! Historical brains engaged…commence ignition! World History: 1948: The first automobile made exclusively in Australia was unveiled this day. It was called the Holden FX and was immediately profitable. Create an advertising jingle to announce the Holden FX’s arrival. American History: 1961: Such tragedy was afoot when the Freedom Riders, a bus group traveling to protest segregation, was attacked in McComb, Mississippi. Local authorities “turned a blind eye” for about 15 minutes, allowing mobs to attack the bus riders. Why do you think there was so much hate 100 years after the start of the Civil War? Word of the day: Production: The process of manufacturing goods for sale. The Holden FX was one such product. What are the advantages and disadvantages of producing your own product (and running your own business!)? Bonus Corner: Antarctica: The 7th “continent” is covered in snow and ice: Richard Byrd made the first Flight over the South Pole. He was with two friends when he made this historic trip. Create their discussion as they realize that they have seen the South Pole. Take off with history! Welcome to November 30! Historical brains engaged…commence ignition! World History: 1609: Galileo Galilei first saw the moon and to the surprise of the public, it was full of craters and not smooth. Imagine you reporting this news back to the local affiliate. Create the interview with persons who viewed Galileo’s cratered sketch. American History: Mark Twain, born Samuel Clemens on this Day in 1835, said: “Don't go around saying the world owes you a living. The world owes you nothing. It was here first.” Twain was a self-made man. If he continued this quote, what might he say? Word of the day: Renaissance: New birth, especially in referring to the advancements in the arts and sciences in the 1500s and 1600s. What types of things could use a new birth in our world at this time? Bonus Corner: 1954: Who has an unlucky streak? Evidently Elizabeth Hodges does! She was reclining on her sofa and a meteorite crashes through her roof, bounces off of a radio and strikes her in the hip. She was not permanently damaged. Tell of your most Unlucky day.