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 6
TDIGH: Birth of Suleyman the Magnificent
Born in 1494, the Ottoman sultan is famous for helping establish the Empire’s system of government, and supporting Islamic architecture.
Map: The Ottoman Empire
Background: More about Suleyman’s life and reign
Activity: Learn more about population and commerce in the Ottoman Empire.
Tuesday, November 7
Just months after overthrowing the czar, the Bolshevik party seized control of the Russian government in 1917.
Map: The Soviet Union and Russia
Background: Causes of the Bolshevik Revolution
Activity: Read this article about the 100 year anniversary of the Russian Revolution. Why do you think Russian President Vladimir Putin does not want to commemorate the centennial?
Wednesday, November 8
TDIGH: China Launches Three Gorges Dam Project
Construction on the controversial dam, which lies on China’s Yangtze River, began in 1997 and wasn’t completed until 2003.
Map: The World’s Rivers
Background: What is hydroelectric energy?
Saturday, November 11
After more than 15 million people had been killed, Germany surrendered in 1918, officially ending World War One.
Visual: WWI Timeline
Background: France and Germany Declare War
Activity: Read about the Treaty of Versailles. How do you think the terms of the treaty affected Germany in the short term and the long term?
Sunday, 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: Human Migration
Activity: Explore these infographics about U.S. immigrants. Which information do you find surprising? Do these facts align with the Trump administration’s views on immigration?