Celebrate the 250th anniversary of America with these documentaries, podcast episodes, and learning resources from WHRO Public Media. From a spectacular program on July 4th - coming to us from Williamsburg - to an exploration of some of America's most iconic landmarks, we have the resources to help your family as you enjoy the holiday and reflect on the history of our great nation.
Stories from the Revolution
Revolution 250: Stories from the First Shore video series and podcast
This video series and podcast brings to life the untold stories of Virginia and surrounding areas during the fight for independence. Discover powerful moments, courageous voices, and forgotten heroes who helped shape a nation. A moving tribute to the people and events that defined America’s path to freedom.
25 for 250 | America's Story Through 25 Films
A collection of films that highlight significant moments in the nation's history.
The American Revolution
Thirteen American colonies unite in rebellion, win an eight-year war to secure their independence, and establish a new form of government that would inspire democratic movements at home and around the globe.
Learning Resources from eMediaVA
Explore Iconic Landmarks Around America
Examine the history of America through some of its most iconic landmarks with Iconic America, such as Fenway Park, the Hollywood Sign, Stone Mountain, and the Golden Gate Bridge. Dive into each iconic location’s history, and explore how their meanings have changed over time, then use these historic monuments as a way to help your students understand America’s past and present.
Creation of the Statue of Liberty
Together, these clips explore the idea behind the Statue of Liberty and the inspiration for its creation, including a discussion of the meaning behind the symbols included within the Statue of Liberty. Accompanying discussion questions and teaching tips encourage students to explore the creation of the Statue of Liberty in particular, and the purpose of national symbols and monuments in general.
American Symbols | Social Studies Shorts
Most nations have symbols that stand for the ideas and values most important to them. The eagle, the official bird of the United States, stands for strength. Learn more about other American symbols, including our flag, the Great Seal, Uncle Sam, and the Statue of Liberty, in this episode of Social Studies Shorts.
The American Flag | Social Studies Shorts
Flags can be used to represent a group, as a signal, or even as decoration. In this episode of Social Studies Shorts, learn about the history of the flag of the United States from its beginnings as a military flag to its most recent changes. Explore what the flag’s famous features—the stars and stripes—represent, and the meanings behind the red, white, and blue.
Saarinen’s St. Louis Gateway Arch, Monument Design, and Westward Expansion
Explore monument design and Westward Expansion in this video about the St. Louis Gateway Arch. Eero Saarinen’s famous arch sits on the Mississippi River and is considered the “gateway to the West.” Saarinen’s structure commemorates Thomas Jefferson and his efforts to open the West through the Louisiana Purchase and the Lewis and Clark Expedition. Built in the 1960s, the Arch remains the tallest arch in the world.
The Lincoln Memorial | The National Mall - America's Front Yard
The Lincoln Memorial, designed by architect Henry Bacon, sits at one end of the National Mall. Watch this video to learn more about the memorial, its design, and internal features.
Hoover Dam and Hydroelectric Power
Since its completion, Hoover Dam has wowed visitors with its sheer massiveness and its ability to create and hold back a reservoir that covers nearly 650 square kilometers (250 square miles). Yet, perhaps even more impressive is the dam's ability to harness the potential energy stored in the reservoir and convert it to electricity.
Live Event & Featured TV
America Made in Virginia: 250 Years Together
A star-filled tribute to America’s Semiquincentennial from revolutionary Colonial Williamsburg. Featuring live performance, historic interpretation, large-scale spectacle and fireworks. This is the place where the path to independence truly began. Watch the trailer.
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