Why Study Reconstruction?
The Reconstruction era was a pivotal moment in American history. Civil rights were set in motion as Americans grappled to rebuild after the division and trauma of the Civil War, raising essential questions about freedom and democracy.
Roosevelt Williams Recalls Voting in Alabama
Roosevelt Williams describes voting in segregated Alabama in the 1930s and 1940s.
The Spirit of Liberty
Judge Learned Hand, a federal judge and legal thinker, reflects on the roles of the law and citizens’ hearts and minds in upholding liberty.
Stanford Sexual Assault Victim’s Statement
Read an excerpt from Chanel Miller's powerful and courageous victim statement, which she read out in court during her attacker Brock Turner's trial.
"Where I'm From" by Melanie Poonai
In her poem, Melanie Poonai reflects on her identity, and all the factors that have helped shape who she is.
Working Class Creatives: Excerpt One
Read an excerpt from journalist Eleanor Halls article which describes the problems faced by working-class artists and the barriers preventing them from engaging with the arts.
Working Class Creatives: Excerpt Two
Read an excerpt from journalist Eleanor Halls article which describes the barriers preventing working-class people from engaging with the arts.
Is It a Crime for Women to Vote?
Read the speech Susan B. Anthony delivered after being arrested for voting in a presidential election before women had gained the right to vote.
Is It a Crime for Women to Vote? (en español)
In Spanish, read the speech Susan B. Anthony delivered after being arrested for voting in a presidential election before women had gained the right to vote.
Overcoming Fears and Spurring Action
Read Ambassador Samantha Power's 2016 speech on the global refugee crisis, and her examples of the "small steps" communities are taking to aid refugees.
Firsthand Accounts of the Great Depression
Read and listen to firsthand accounts of the shame, humiliation, and deprivation experienced by those who lived through the Great Depression.