Here’s an advance look at a 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.
Monday, November 7
The Bolshevik party, led by lawyer Vladimir Lenin, seized control of the Russian government in 1917 and five years later created the Soviet Union.
Map: Republics of the Soviet Union
Background: What caused the Bolshevik Revolution?
Activity: Watch this video about the Russian Revolution (includes both revolutions of 1917).
Wednesday, November 9
TDIGH: Great Northeast Blackout
The 1965 blackout paralyzed businesses and transportation systems across the northeast U.S. and Ontario, Canada, affecting more than 30 million people.
Background: Nat Geo resources on electricity
Activity: Read and discuss the California Blackouts.
Friday, November 11
Upon landing in what is now Plymouth, Massachusetts, in 1620, the pilgrims created a compact outlining rules for the new colony.
Background: More info about the journey and the document
Activity: What democratic ideas exist in the Mayflower Compact? Complete the Mayflower Compact portion of this activity.
Germany’s surrender in 1918 marked the end of World War I, the most destructive conflict in human history up to that point.
Visual: Images from WWI
Background: Timeline of WWI
Activity: Learn about the Paris Peace Conference after WWI. What was the result of the harsh terms placed on Germany?
Saturday, November 12
Between 1892 and 1954, more than 12 million immigrants entered the U.S. through Ellis Island.
Map: Immigration to the U.S. in the late 1800s
Background: The different types of human migration
Activity: Watch this video about what Ellis Island means today.