Dec 2, 1823: In a State of the Union message, U.S. President James Monroe proclaims American neutrality in future European conflicts, and warns European powers not to interfere in the Americas.
The Monroe Doctrine was an early U.S. foreign policy that tried to stop European nations from getting involved in the Western Hemisphere. President James Monroe explained this policy in 1823, during a time when world powers were changing. This lesson explains what a doctrine is and how the Monroe Doctrine became an important part of U.S. foreign policy.
When many Latin American countries won independence from Spain and Portugal, the United States worried that other European countries might try to take control again. Monroe worked with his Secretary of State and then announced in a speech that the Americas were no longer open to colonization. Why was this seen as a strong statement of independence? And how did the Doctrine affect old and new relationships between nations? Learn more in this video.
Learn about the life of civil rights activist Rosa Parks— her work with the NAACP, bus boycotts, and her lifelong fight against racial inequality.
Throughout her life, Rosa Parks repeatedly challenged racial violence and the prejudiced systems protecting its perpetrators. Her refusal to move to the back of a segregated bus ignited a boycott that lasted 381 days and helped transform civil rights activism into a national movement. But this work came at an enormous risk— and a personal price. Riché D. Richardson details the life of Rosa Parks.
Lesson by Riché D. Richardson, directed by Eido.
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Rosa Parks Day is a U.S observance that celebrates the famous civil rights leader Rosa Parks. In different parts of the United States, this day is celebrated on different days. In some areas, its celebrated on December 1, the day in 1955she refused to give up her seat on bus, kicking off the Montgomery Bus Boycott. In other places, its celebrated on Rosa Park’s birthday—which is February 4th. No matter what day it’s observed, however, it’s a good day to learn about the civil rights movement or to take part in activities that support the civil rights movement.
12. What is the “rule of law”? 42. Under our Constitution, some powers belong to the states. What is one power of the states? 55. What are two ways that Americans can participate in their democracy? 84. What movement tried to end racial discrimination? 48. There are four amendments to the Constitution about who can vote. Describe one of them. 37. What does the judicial branch do? 23. Name your U.S. Representative.
