Disputes the commonly-held view that the Puritans of colonial New England were adamant opponents of alcohol consumption. Maintains that the tavern gradually became a central social institution, where food, drink, conversation, and entertainment ameliorated the stresses of daily living. (CFR)

Presents a set of four maps illustrating changing German political borders. Includes the time period from 1933, when Hitler came to power, until the division of Germany in 1945. Includes a map showing the Allied Powers against Germany, nations allied with Germany, and neutral nations. (CFR)

Maintains that U.S. history did not begin with the colonization of North America by Europeans but with the Native American tribes that flourished prior to colonization. Discusses economic issues that determined the history and culture of various tribes. Provides a lesson plan based on economic decisions made by the Choctaw tribe. (CFR)

It is argued that a traditional, historically-oriented course in 17th- and 18th-century French civilization continues to be an appropriate and effective approach for undergraduate French study, in preparation for later, more sophisticated cultural analysis. Four course components are discussed: class lectures; literary text selection; textbook…

Reports on the controversy about the National History Standards, released in 1994 as part of the Goals 2000 program. Argues that the standards encourage critical thinking skills, active learning, use of primary sources, and integration of art and literature into history. (CFR)

Describes one teacher's evolving beliefs about teaching cultural diversity: she has moved from a traditional textbook-oriented formula for teaching U.S. history to one that uses a greater breadth of materials and resources. Student writing reflects critical thinking about and understanding of the points of view of many diverse interest groups. (JB)

Compares historical writing and historiography of the 19th and 20th centuries. Asserts that early history, written primarily by amateur historians, was simplistic and prone to error. Maintains that present-day histories provide more coverage of ethnic groups and women. (CFR)

Reviews the computer simulation, "Civilization," and asserts that it offers exciting possibilities as an interactive introduction to world history and historical thinking. Includes a course syllabus in which "Civilization" serves as a central feature and two writing assignments based on the simulation. (CFR)

Contends that fiction can help students understand historical periods and events. Presents and discusses four criteria for selecting novels to be used in college courses on World War I and World War II. Includes a bibliographic essay on recommended novels for each war. (CFR)

Asserts that electronic media will transform how historians conduct research, teach, and present the past. Maintains that CD-ROM technology offers exciting possibilities for historical research. Provides a bibliographic essay on 16 history-oriented CD-ROM products. (CFR)

Asserts that professors of U.S. history have an important stake in the publication of standards for teaching history in the public schools. Discusses the development of the standards and controversies that emerged. Concludes that college historians will benefit if the voluntary standards are implemented. (CFR)

Presents a two-month historical research project for use in a sixth grade social studies class. Includes student use of artifacts, photographs, news clippings, maps, and oral histories obtained by interviews. Suggests that children compile a chronological history of their community to analyze, organize, and record what they have learned. (DK)

Examines how differences between history and sociology present challenges to teaching and practice utilizing an interdisciplinary approach. Observes historians emphasize development of literary writing skills whereas sociologists could benefit from greater attention to the role of writing. Advocates continuing efforts for interdisciplinary…

Provides two lesson plans for classroom use. Focuses on media influence on the use of alcohol and tobacco and on regulatory laws and their effect on drug use. Identifies connections that can be made to textbooks and magazine articles, as well as suggestions for opening, developing, and concluding each lesson. (DK)

Discusses the importance of attracting and maintaining student interest when teaching history. Argues that students learn best when they participate. Recommends using open-ended questions to motivate students to the process of studying history, making choices, and looking for answers. Emphasizes the value of mentoring, continuing education, and…