Cowboy culture might seem uniquely American, but one Chinese immigrant says it feels surprisingly familiar. Bruce Wang is originally from Yunnan, a region of China with a long history of horse breeding among many ethnic groups, but became fascinated with the cowboy lifestyle after moving to Texas as an international student at 20 years old.
At first, he dressed like a cowboy, but looking the part wasn't enough — he wanted the real experience. So he joined the cattle industry, learning to ride horses and work with livestock. Maybe he even learned to appreciate the smell of cow manure — or at least not complain about it.
After more than a decade in the United States, cowboy culture has become an important part of his identity, and he says it will stay with him even if he returns to China one day. By sharing his story, Bruce hopes people in China and the United States will better understand one another despite ongoing political tensions. What a moooooooo-ving story.
Discover the powerful story and lasting influence of Billie Holiday, one of the most important voices in American music history. Students will explore how her unforgettable style, emotional performances, and groundbreaking songs helped shape jazz culture while shining a light on the realities of segregation and racism in the United States.
This Kahoot examines Holiday’s life and music, including the rise of jazz clubs during the Harlem Renaissance, the challenges Black performers faced during segregation, and the impact of her famous protest song, "Strange Fruit." Students will build listening skills, expand vocabulary, and deepen their understanding of how music can inspire awareness, emotion, and social change.
Watch the related BBC videos (for mature viewers), Billie Holiday, a Voice Against Injustice and Billie Holiday and Strange Fruit, then invite your Grade 9–12 students to test their knowledge and explore the powerful connection between music, history, and culture.
Trace the remarkable journey of Martin Luther King Jr. from his childhood in the segregated South to his rise as one of the most influential leaders in the American Civil Rights Movement. Through peaceful protest, powerful speeches, and unwavering determination, Dr. King inspired millions to challenge injustice and fight for equality.
This Kahoot explores key moments in his life and legacy — including the Montgomery Bus Boycott, the March on Washington, and the lasting impact of his famous “I Have a Dream” speech. Students will discover how nonviolence, courage, and moral leadership helped reshape history and continue to inspire movements for justice around the world today.
Watch the related BBC videos (below), then invite your Grade 3–8 students to test their knowledge and deepen their understanding of this iconic leader and the movement he helped lead.
This Women’s History Month, invite your students to step into the role of historian, storyteller, and researcher as they create profiles of extraordinary women in history. Our Women’s History Biography Template is designed for ages 8–14 and helps students organize key facts, explore challenges and accomplishments, and reflect on why these figures still matter today. With guided sections for important life events, obstacles overcome, and lasting impact, this ready-to-use template supports research skills, critical thinking, and strong writing.
To get started, visit our Figures in Women’s History microsite and explore a rich video library featuring trailblazing leaders, artists, scientists, and activists. Learn about Jane Goodall and her pioneering work in conservation and animal behavior, or dive into the groundbreaking research and storytelling of Zora Neale Hurston, who preserved and celebrated African American folklore and culture. Students can also discover figures who fought for women's suffrage, advanced medicine, and transformed sports. This is a great jumping off point for students to begin further research on their chosen icon.
In Zora Neale Hurston and the Harlem Renaissance, explore the life and work of writer and anthropologist Zora Neale Hurston, from her Alabama childhood to her studies of African American folklore and culture. Though she died in obscurity, her legacy was revived by Alice Walker, restoring her place as a key figure in literature and the Harlem Renaissance.
In Abraham Lincoln and the Emancipation Proclamation, learn how President Abraham Lincoln issued a bold declaration during the third year of the Civil War that all enslaved people in Confederate-held territories were to be free. While limited in immediate effect, the proclamation allowed Black men to join the Union Army and became one of the greatest documents of human freedom in U.S. history.
Test Your Knowledge of the Civil Rights Movement
The Civil Rights Movement was a pivotal time in American history, when individuals and communities fought for equality, justice, and the basic rights of all people. From the oppressive Jim Crow laws to brave acts of resistance, this movement reshaped the nation.
This quiz will explore key events, influential leaders, and cultural milestones, including Emmett Till, Rosa Parks and the Montgomery bus boycott, the March on Washington, Bloody Sunday, the Voting Rights Act, Martin Luther King Jr., Charlotta Bass, Malcolm X, John Lewis, and Motown.
See how much you know about the struggle, the leaders, and the victories that helped create a more just society.
In Obama’s Presidential Victory, journalist Clive Myrie shows Barack Obama’s presidential victory as a historic turning point and the passing of a long-fought baton to a new generation of leadership. Drawing on voices from advisors, supporters, and Rhea McCauley, the niece of Rosa Parks, the video explores themes of dignity, perseverance, hope, and the belief that progress is possible when people reject cynicism and act together. This video is excerpted from BBC’s Obama: His Story, which traces Obama’s extraordinary journey to the presidency and its meaning within the broader African American freedom struggle.
In Obama Takes the National Stage, journalist Clive Myrie covers how Barack Obama delivered the keynote address at the 2004 Democratic National Convention, a moment that would introduce him to the nation. Watch Obama’s early nerves, growing confidence, and the power of a speech that connected personal stories to broader ideas of freedom and justice. This video is excerpted from BBC’s Obama: His Story, which traces Obama’s extraordinary journey to the presidency and its meaning within the broader African American freedom struggle.
Meet the Leaders Who Shaped a Nation.
They were visionaries and leaders, but they were also imperfect people shaped by their times. From bold founders and wartime decision-makers to reformers and risk-takers, these U.S. presidents guided the nation through moments of hope, conflict, and change.
In this video playlist, explore BBC clips featuring George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln, Theodore Roosevelt, and others, examining both their achievements and their shortcomings. A thoughtful playlist that encourages students to see history with nuance, question leadership, and understand that progress is often driven by complicated people making difficult choices.
Think You’re a Thanksgiving Expert? Let’s Find Out!
Thanksgiving is a time to give thanks, feast with family and friends, and kick off the holiday season with all the trimmings. But how much do you really know about this classic American holiday, celebrated every year on the last Thursday in November?
From the First Thanksgiving feast to fun turkey trivia (yes, some of them actually blush!), this quiz is stuffed with fascinating facts and a few surprises. Only the most knowledgeable holiday historians and gravy gurus will make it to the top of the leaderboard.
Meet the Icons of the 20th Century. From brilliant scientists and inspiring activists to legendary athletes and artists, these remarkable individuals changed the world in powerful ways. In this video playlist of clips from BBC's Icons: The Greatest Person of the 20th Century, meet Muhammad Ali, Helen Keller, Albert Einstein, Martin Luther King Jr., Pablo Picasso, Jane Goodall, Pelé, Billie Holiday and others — each a trailblazer who shaped history through courage, creativity, and conviction. A perfect playlist to inspire young minds to think big and act boldly!
Cowboy culture might seem uniquely American, but one Chinese immigrant says it feels surprisingly familiar. Bruce Wang is originally from Yunnan, a region of China with a long history of horse breeding among many ethnic groups, but became fascinated with the cowboy lifestyle after moving to Texas as an international student at 20 years old.
At first, he dressed like a cowboy, but looking the part wasn't enough — he wanted the real experience. So he joined the cattle industry, learning to ride horses and work with livestock. Maybe he even learned to appreciate the smell of cow manure — or at least not complain about it.
After more than a decade in the United States, cowboy culture has become an important part of his identity, and he says it will stay with him even if he returns to China one day. By sharing his story, Bruce hopes people in China and the United States will better understand one another despite ongoing political tensions. What a moooooooo-ving story.
Discover the powerful story and lasting influence of Billie Holiday, one of the most important voices in American music history. Students will explore how her unforgettable style, emotional performances, and groundbreaking songs helped shape jazz culture while shining a light on the realities of segregation and racism in the United States.
This Kahoot examines Holiday’s life and music, including the rise of jazz clubs during the Harlem Renaissance, the challenges Black performers faced during segregation, and the impact of her famous protest song, "Strange Fruit." Students will build listening skills, expand vocabulary, and deepen their understanding of how music can inspire awareness, emotion, and social change.
Watch the related BBC videos (for mature viewers), Billie Holiday, a Voice Against Injustice and Billie Holiday and Strange Fruit, then invite your Grade 9–12 students to test their knowledge and explore the powerful connection between music, history, and culture.
Trace the remarkable journey of Martin Luther King Jr. from his childhood in the segregated South to his rise as one of the most influential leaders in the American Civil Rights Movement. Through peaceful protest, powerful speeches, and unwavering determination, Dr. King inspired millions to challenge injustice and fight for equality.
This Kahoot explores key moments in his life and legacy — including the Montgomery Bus Boycott, the March on Washington, and the lasting impact of his famous “I Have a Dream” speech. Students will discover how nonviolence, courage, and moral leadership helped reshape history and continue to inspire movements for justice around the world today.
Watch the related BBC videos (below), then invite your Grade 3–8 students to test their knowledge and deepen their understanding of this iconic leader and the movement he helped lead.
This Women’s History Month, invite your students to step into the role of historian, storyteller, and researcher as they create profiles of extraordinary women in history. Our Women’s History Biography Template is designed for ages 8–14 and helps students organize key facts, explore challenges and accomplishments, and reflect on why these figures still matter today. With guided sections for important life events, obstacles overcome, and lasting impact, this ready-to-use template supports research skills, critical thinking, and strong writing.
To get started, visit our Figures in Women’s History microsite and explore a rich video library featuring trailblazing leaders, artists, scientists, and activists. Learn about Jane Goodall and her pioneering work in conservation and animal behavior, or dive into the groundbreaking research and storytelling of Zora Neale Hurston, who preserved and celebrated African American folklore and culture. Students can also discover figures who fought for women's suffrage, advanced medicine, and transformed sports. This is a great jumping off point for students to begin further research on their chosen icon.
In Zora Neale Hurston and the Harlem Renaissance, explore the life and work of writer and anthropologist Zora Neale Hurston, from her Alabama childhood to her studies of African American folklore and culture. Though she died in obscurity, her legacy was revived by Alice Walker, restoring her place as a key figure in literature and the Harlem Renaissance.
In Abraham Lincoln and the Emancipation Proclamation, learn how President Abraham Lincoln issued a bold declaration during the third year of the Civil War that all enslaved people in Confederate-held territories were to be free. While limited in immediate effect, the proclamation allowed Black men to join the Union Army and became one of the greatest documents of human freedom in U.S. history.
Test Your Knowledge of the Civil Rights Movement
The Civil Rights Movement was a pivotal time in American history, when individuals and communities fought for equality, justice, and the basic rights of all people. From the oppressive Jim Crow laws to brave acts of resistance, this movement reshaped the nation.
This quiz will explore key events, influential leaders, and cultural milestones, including Emmett Till, Rosa Parks and the Montgomery bus boycott, the March on Washington, Bloody Sunday, the Voting Rights Act, Martin Luther King Jr., Charlotta Bass, Malcolm X, John Lewis, and Motown.
See how much you know about the struggle, the leaders, and the victories that helped create a more just society.
In Obama’s Presidential Victory, journalist Clive Myrie shows Barack Obama’s presidential victory as a historic turning point and the passing of a long-fought baton to a new generation of leadership. Drawing on voices from advisors, supporters, and Rhea McCauley, the niece of Rosa Parks, the video explores themes of dignity, perseverance, hope, and the belief that progress is possible when people reject cynicism and act together. This video is excerpted from BBC’s Obama: His Story, which traces Obama’s extraordinary journey to the presidency and its meaning within the broader African American freedom struggle.
In Obama Takes the National Stage, journalist Clive Myrie covers how Barack Obama delivered the keynote address at the 2004 Democratic National Convention, a moment that would introduce him to the nation. Watch Obama’s early nerves, growing confidence, and the power of a speech that connected personal stories to broader ideas of freedom and justice. This video is excerpted from BBC’s Obama: His Story, which traces Obama’s extraordinary journey to the presidency and its meaning within the broader African American freedom struggle.
Meet the Leaders Who Shaped a Nation.
They were visionaries and leaders, but they were also imperfect people shaped by their times. From bold founders and wartime decision-makers to reformers and risk-takers, these U.S. presidents guided the nation through moments of hope, conflict, and change.
In this video playlist, explore BBC clips featuring George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln, Theodore Roosevelt, and others, examining both their achievements and their shortcomings. A thoughtful playlist that encourages students to see history with nuance, question leadership, and understand that progress is often driven by complicated people making difficult choices.
Think You’re a Thanksgiving Expert? Let’s Find Out!
Thanksgiving is a time to give thanks, feast with family and friends, and kick off the holiday season with all the trimmings. But how much do you really know about this classic American holiday, celebrated every year on the last Thursday in November?
From the First Thanksgiving feast to fun turkey trivia (yes, some of them actually blush!), this quiz is stuffed with fascinating facts and a few surprises. Only the most knowledgeable holiday historians and gravy gurus will make it to the top of the leaderboard.
Meet the Icons of the 20th Century. From brilliant scientists and inspiring activists to legendary athletes and artists, these remarkable individuals changed the world in powerful ways. In this video playlist of clips from BBC's Icons: The Greatest Person of the 20th Century, meet Muhammad Ali, Helen Keller, Albert Einstein, Martin Luther King Jr., Pablo Picasso, Jane Goodall, Pelé, Billie Holiday and others — each a trailblazer who shaped history through courage, creativity, and conviction. A perfect playlist to inspire young minds to think big and act boldly!