Colonial Williamsburg Foundation
Colonial Williamsburg: History: Kids: Declaration of Independence
Site in which students can zoom in on the actual Declaration of Independence document.
University of Groningen
American History: Outlines: Samuel Adams
Overview on the early American radical, Samuel Adams, a political organizer who called for American independence.
University of Groningen
American History: Outlines: Common Sense and Independence
Overview of the philosophy of Thomas Paine in his widely read Common Sense pamphlet, and "natural rights" philosphy as expressed in the opening passage of the Declaration of Independence.
US Government Publishing Office
Ben's Guide to u.s. Government: Declaration of Independence: 1776
Website with games and information on American government provides information on the Declaration of Independence and summarizes the history surrounding the document.
Constitutional Rights Foundation
Constitutional Rights Foundation: Centralized vs. Decentralized Rule: The Articles of Confederation
Activity comparing the Articles of Confederation to the Constitution. Using a variety of articles, students research and create a chart with explanations and critical comparisons of the two governing documents.
Ohio Test Prep
Ohio Test Prep: Northwest Ordinance
Ohio Test Prep video from which students learn how the Northwest Ordinance established a precedent for governing the United States.
The Dirksen Congressional Center
Congress for Kids: The Articles of Confederation
At this site read a short synopsis of the Articles of Confederation, and then complete a short quiz by clicking on the "show what you know" link at the bottom.