12 of 15 results for "independent"
Student Article
The Declaration of Independence: A Revolutionary Document and Its Unfinished Promise
The article "The Declaration of Independence: A Revolutionary Document and Its Unfinished Promise" from BBC's HistoryExtra explains the origins and content of the Declaration of Independence, which declared the American colonies free from British rule. The document outlined grievances against King George III and promised freedom and equality, yet it ignored key groups like enslaved people and Native Americans.
Video
Mahatma Gandhi: His Legacy

In Mahatma Gandhi: His Legacy, host Sanjeev Bhaskar discusses the life of Mahatma Gandhi, his peaceful protests, and his ability to shake the foundations of the British Empire. This video is excerpted from BBC’s Icons: The Greatest Person of the 20th Century, a documentary series celebrating the achievements of the most influential figures of the era.

Lesson Plan
Exploring Antarctica: Let's Be Research Scientists
Take your students on a research journey to Antarctica! In this lesson, students will become Antarctic scientists as they explore the continent’s unique wildlife using video clips from BBC’s Seven Worlds, One Planet and Frozen Planet. Students will watch the videos, then research an Antarctic animal of their choice. They will explore what is known about the animal, identify gaps in scientific knowledge, and suggest future research areas. Finally, students will present their findings in a class display to inspire others to learn more about this amazing environment!
Video
Snowstorm in Yellowstone: Grizzly Bears

In Snowstorm in Yellowstone: Grizzly Bears, narrator Gordon Buchanan explains how the weather can change quickly in the high altitudes of Yellowstone National Park. A heavy snowstorm could cause grizzly bear cubs to get lost from their mother. The baby cubs are also threatened by an adult male grizzly bear. This video is excerpted from BBC's Animal Babies, a heartwarming show that follows the first breaths, first steps, and first feeds of some adorable baby animals, revealing the challenges they face to survive in some of the toughest but most beautiful places on the planet.

Video
Penguin Chicks: Growing Up

In Penguin Chicks: Growing Up, narrator Sir David Attenborough describes how the penguin chick is a month old and growing fast. Both its parents leave to gather food, leaving the chick alone. What instincts will kick in to help it survive when the temperature drops again? This video is excerpted from BBC’s Dynasties, a documentary that follows endangered species fighting for their survival.

Student Article
Why the United States of America Celebrates Independence Day on July Fourth
The article "Why the United States of America Celebrates Independence Day on July Fourth" from BBC's HistoryExtra explains the origins of America's Independence Day, which commemorates the signing of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. Dr. Tom Cutterham discusses the historical context of the American Revolutionary War, the contributions of key figures like Thomas Jefferson, and the significance of the day in shaping America's identity.
Student Article
Women in the American Revolution: Courageous Contributions on the Road to Independence
The article "Women in the American Revolution: Courageous Contributions on the Road to Independence" from BBC's HistoryExtra explores the diverse roles women played during the American Revolution. It highlights figures like Abigail Adams, who advocated for women's rights; Deborah Sampson, who disguised herself as a man to fight; and Phillis Wheatley, an enslaved poet whose writings inspired many.
Video
Animal Independence: Finding Food
In Animal Independence: Finding Food, narrator Gordon Buchanan explains how young animals must learn to provide their own food to become independent. Grizzly bear cubs in British Columbia learn to fish for salmon by watching their mother. Capuchin monkeys in Brazil use rocks to smash palm nuts and sticks to pull sap from inside trees. This video is excerpted from BBC's Animal Babies, a heartwarming show that follows the first breaths, first steps and first feeds of some adorable baby animals, revealing the challenges they face to survive in some of the toughest but most beautiful places on the planet.
Video
Is the Fourth of July the Wrong Day?

In Is the Fourth of July the Wrong Day?, historian Lucy Worsley learns that John Adams announced in 1776 that July 2 should be the day to celebrate Independence. However, the Declaration of Independence was not finalized until two days later. This video is excerpted from BBC's American History's Biggest Fibs with Lucy Worsley, in which Worsley reveals the myths and manipulations behind American history.

Student Article
Benjamin Franklin: The Revolutionary Genius Who Shaped America’s Future
The article "Benjamin Franklin: The Revolutionary Genius Who Shaped America’s Future" from BBC's HistoryExtra explores the many roles of Benjamin Franklin. A Founding Father, inventor, and diplomat, Franklin was pivotal in securing the French-American alliance during the American Revolution. Known for his inventions like the lightning rod and bifocals, he also played a key part in drafting the Declaration of Independence.
Video
Octopus IQ: The Jar Challenge

In Octopus IQ: The Jar Challenge, ecologist David Scheel introduces Heidi the octopus to a clever challenge — a jar with a crab inside and a screw top lid. As Heidi figures out how to unscrew the lid, Scheel explains the remarkable way octopus intelligence works: their smarts aren’t just in their head but also in their eight arms, which can act independently of each other. This video is excerpted from BBC’s Natural World: The Octopus in My House, a remarkable series about a professor and the extraordinary relationship he develops with an octopus when he invites it to live in his home.

Video
Born Ready: The Secret Lives of Newborn Octopuses, Squid, and Cuttlefish

In Born Ready: The Secret Lives of Newborn Octopuses, Squid, and Cuttlefish, ecologist David Scheel joins fellow researcher Brett to explore the fascinating world of newborn octopuses, squid, and cuttlefish. These creatures are born with the ability to change color while still in their sac, preparing them for life underwater. As soon as they hatch, they are independent hunters, capable of targeting prey even larger than themselves. This video is excerpted from BBC’s Natural World: The Octopus in My House, a remarkable series about a professor and the extraordinary relationship he develops with an octopus when he invites it to live in his home.