North America History

On April 14, 1865, only days after the Civil War had come to a close, a gunshot rang out in Ford’s Theatre and President Abraham Lincoln slumped forward in his seat. Hours later, the United States had lost its leader. Now listeners can step back in time to learn about what led up to the assassination plot, how the fateful evening unfolded, and the ways in which one tragic day changed America forever.

Did you know there were several women and girls who worked as spies during the Civil War? Thanks to the voluminous hoop skirts and petticoats they wore, their clothing made it very easy to hide messages and smuggle them to the soldiers. Take a look at some of the women who served as Civil War spies!

Alexander Hamilton and James Madison were supporters of a strong federal government and participated in the Constitutional Convention. Together with John Jay, they wrote The Federalist Papers, one of many activities that led to the adoption of the U.S. Constitution. Learn more about the Alexander Hamilton and the “Father of the Constitution," James Madison.

During the early 18th century, colonist John Peter Zenger printed a newspaper called the New-York Weekly Journal. Zenger helped bring information to the colonists of New York City. However, after publishing an editorial that opposed the actions of a local governor, Zenger was arrested for eight months before his trial. How would Zenger escape this situation?

Native Americans like Squanto provided good fortune for the Pilgrims of colonial America. During this period, tensions were high between Europeans and the Native Americans in present-day Massachusetts. Squanto, Samoset, and Hobbamock served as interpreters and ambassadors, establishing peaceful alliances between these two groups.

Philadelphia was a noisy and lively city in Colonial America. In this story, you can just imagine being surrounded by the influence of various cultures, the smells of food in the city and the sounds of craftsmen hard at work.

In Colonial America, the port city of Philadelphia offered more opportunities for women like Rebecca Jones, a Quaker spinster and schoolteacher.

Many immigrants of various cultures have passed through the port city of Philadelphia before they adapted to the New World. William Penn guaranteed religious freedom to newcomers, which brought many persecuted peoples, such as Quakers, Mennonites, and refugees to the area, and that's only a smart part of the story of Philadelphia.

The Wampanoags, who inhabited what it is now southeastern Massachusetts, were strikingly different from the Pilgrims, who did not share the same interests in sharing land. The native people could not foresee Europeans taking the land that the Wampanoags had once respected and treasured.

Benjamin Franklin was often curious about the world around him. Utilizing observation and testing of the scientific method, he was able to invent many new items that improved the world for others. These inventions include his famous bifocal glasses, lightning rod, and even a long extension arm.

Here is the story of eight-year-old Laurie's experience attending the 1963 March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom.

Colette writes to her cousin, Philip, in the United States about the development of the Statue of Liberty.

In the 1950s, African American leaders used the nation's laws and courts to confirm black citizens' rights. This audiobook explores how America's schools finally became desegregated.

The United States was founded on freedom. The many symbols that represent this liberty build patriotism and a sense of community. This introduction for young listeners explains the meaning, history, and importance of these symbols that celebrate the freedom of the United States.

Follow the true stories of heroes on the day that changed America forever: September 11, 2001. This riveting series takes listeners into the lives of heroes, from medics and firefighters to everyday people, who faced terrible danger and showed true courage. Hear first-hand accounts of those who stepped up when others needed them most and celebrate the heroes of our nation. This volume includes Canine Hero and EMS to the Rescue.

Follow the true stories of heroes on the day that changed America forever: September 11, 2001. This riveting series takes listeners into the lives of heroes, from medics and firefighters to everyday people, who faced terrible danger and showed true courage. Hear first-hand accounts of those who stepped up when others needed them most and celebrate the heroes of our nation. This volume includes Fighting in Flight and Guiding Light.

So you want to be a Supreme Court justice? Find out the requirements, the roles and responsibilities, and how you can put yourself on the path to sitting on the highest court in the nation.

So you want to be a U.S. representative? Find out the requirements, the roles and responsibilities, and how you can put yourself on the path to becoming a member of Congress.

On September 16, 1965, Filipino and Mexican American migrant workers joined together to strike against the grape growers in Delano, California. The farmers left the fields to demand better wages and benefits. Led by Larry Itliong, Cesar Chavez, and Dolores Huerta, the two groups created a union called the United Farm Workers of America.

When you need to mislead the enemy, who are you going to call? The Ghost Army of course! During World War II, this top secret group of artists and special effects experts worked to deceive German forces on the front lines. Using fake combat vehicles and artillery, dummies dressed as soldiers, and broadcasting the sounds of troops and equipment, the Ghost Army often tricked the Germans into believing U.S. forces were about to attack in one place while the real troops moved against another target.