Here’s an advance look at some of the “This Day in Geographic History” (TDIGH) events coming up this week. For each date, we’ve matched it with a map or visual, background information, and a classroom activity so you can plan ahead.
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Monday, November 27
TDIGH: Atmosphere on Extrasolar Planet Detected
In 2001, NASA recorded the first atmospheric measurement of a planet outside our solar system.
Visual: Interactive Timeline: Exoplanet Exploration
Background: What is an atmosphere?
Activity: Explore NASA’s resources on exoplanets.
Wednesday, November 29
The U.S. Army killed more than 200 members of the Cheyenne and Arapaho tribes in Sand Creek, Colorado in 1864.
Map: Battles between Native Americans and the U.S. Army
Background: Indian Removal Act
Activity: Watch and discuss this video about the Sand Creek Massacre.
The UN’s 1947 decision to divide the British territory into Jewish and Arab states resulted in a conflict that continues to this day.
Map: Israel and the Palestinian territories
Background: British support for a Jewish state
Activity: Look at this map of ongoing conflicts around the world. Then, watch a video that examines the conflict between Israel and Palestine.
Friday, December 1
Since 1988, this day has recognized worldwide efforts to combat HIV and AIDS.
Map: Interactive: “HIV Where You Live”
Background: World AIDS Day
Activity: Read and discuss this article about transportation and the spread of HIV in Congo in the 1960s.
In 1955 Rosa Parks challenged segregation on a bus, helping spark the civil rights movement.
Map: Laws and signs from the Jim Crow era
Background: Civil Rights resources
Activity: Read a student interview with Rosa Parks. Are there any other questions you would’ve wanted to ask her?