Can Witches Request Bail?

One of the primary jobs of historians is to read and analyze primary source documents. These documents allow us to come to a more personal understanding of history. The following document is a letter written by a group of men and women who were accused of witchcraft. As you read, try to imagine what it would be like to be in the same position of these people. What are their main reasons for requesting a release from jail?

Assignment: Complete the Document Analysis Worksheet as you read the letter.

Hip-Hop History

I Want America

• What is your favorite lyric from the song?

Controlling Jamestown

The Jamestown Adventure is an online simulation that asks you to play the role of a decision-maker in Jamestown. Your success will be determined by four factors: food, health, wealth & morale. Give it your best shot and see how well you do! You may play the game as much as you like.  See how long it takes until you can achieve a “Good” score in all 4 categories.  After you complete the activity, respond to the following question in the comments section: Hint: pay close attention to the final screen.

• What did you learn about the Jamestown settlement from this simulation?
• Which decision do you think was the most important?

Will the real Pocahontas please stand up?

Most of us are familiar with the Disney version of the story of Pocahontas. However, as students of history, it is important to reflect on how the story and image of Pocahontas has changed over time. The following interactive will use images of Pocahontas to help build Historical Thinking Skills. As you complete the activity, think about the following question:

• How has the image of Pocahontas changed over time?
• What may have caused the images and stories to change?

Post your responses in the comment section below.

Babe Ruth in Sleepy Eye?

According to the tag on this photograph, Babe Ruth visited Sleepy Eye on October 16th, 1922. What on Earth drew Babe to Sleepy Eye? What steps would you take to solve this mystery?