Grade levels: Upper Elementary (4-6)

This Just the Facts Learning Series offers a fascinating account of the colonization of North America, from the European situations that encouraged migration to America, to the adventurous explorers and settlers and their quests for riches or religious freedom, to the friendships and conflicts between the colonists and Native Americans.

The most powerful European countries of the 16th and 17th centuries played competing roles in the colonization of North America. Spain, France, and England vied for the vast North American territories that were available for the taking, at the expense of native populations. This video examines the French settlements.

Just the Facts: Colonization of North America: English Settlements examines the establishment of Roanoke in 1585; the successful settlement of Jamestown, Virginia; the roles of Captain John Smith, Pocahontas and Chief Powhatan; the settlement of Plymouth, Massachusetts in 1620; Plymouth Rock and the first Thanksgiving.

Our country’s destiny has been shaped by those who gave of their leadership, wisdom and sometimes their lives. Our Documents of Destiny have recorded the evolution of republic down through the years. In this program we focus on the period of history when America was first born and starting to grow.

Just the Facts: The Colonization of North America: The First Settlements discusses the French trading networks, their alliances with Native Americans, and their conflicts with settlers.

Climb aboard the Just The Facts time machine for a fun filled journey through American history. Along the way you will visit the many landmark years that contribute to forging the greatest nation on earth.

Little Known Facts of American History – You may know about the major events during America’s history, but the little known happenings are equally fascinating and possibly just as important. The first part of this production looks at important little known events such as: * When time zones and road maps first help organize American’s lives. * The origins of the Ferris wheel, tissue paper and the potato chip. * The founding of the YMCA * The first stagecoach drivers, phone operators and even Baseball umpires… and many more!

The interactive format of this DVD invites viewers to test their knowledge of our state capitals and makes watching (and learning!) fun for all ages.

Understanding Government: The Executive Branch is a fascinating program that analyzes the powers of the President from a legal and historical point of view. Past presidents had differing opinions on executive power. Some held very conservative views on its scope of authority, while others held a more liberal stance on the powers granted the president and a few overstepped its bounds. This includes not only Richard Nixon, but also Franklin D. Roosevelt and even Abraham Lincoln. Noted educators and elected officials offer insight on this important facet of American political science.