Research has extensively examined the role of primary sources in history education. One influential piece of research was conducted by Keith Barton in 2005. Barton’s study highlights several key benefits of using primary sources, like historical newspapers, in teaching history, including the promotion of critical thinking, the enhancement of understanding of historical concepts, fostering of […]
Using Digital Archives To Rewrite History (Lessons) For Elementary School Students
History is an infinite repository of stories, a fascinating confluence of narratives, and a wellspring of lessons. It offers a retrospective glance into the vibrant tapestry of human existence. To most, history might seem like a chronological record of events; to educators, it’s an invaluable toolkit that fosters knowledge, inculcates critical thinking skills, and broadens […]
Putting The Text In Context: Embracing the Challenges of Historical Newspaper Research
David McCullough is an American author who is regarded as one of the most respected and influential historians of our time. Known for his bestselling books on American history, McCullough has received numerous awards and honors for his work, including two Pulitzer Prizes. McCullough’s writing style is characterized by thorough research, vivid storytelling, and a […]
Reading Between The Lines: Helping Students Recognize Bias in Historical Newspapers
As the historian and educator Sam Wineburg stated, “Historical thinking, in its deepest forms, is neither a natural process nor something that springs automatically from psychological development.” This statement reflects the nuanced and complex nature of historical inquiry and how it is different from the intuitive way we understand our immediate world. “Historical thinking“ involves […]
Old Words, New Lessons: Helping Students Navigate the Language of the Past
Community newspapers serve as a treasure trove of information, encapsulating the essence of a period in the past. They often document everyday life and local events, making history feel more relevant and accessible to students. National and international news can be contextualized through them within a familiar local setting, heightening students’ interest and understanding. Digitization […]
Bringing History to Life: Integrating Historical Newspaper Research in the Classroom
In an era where we compete with digital screens for our children’s attention, keeping them engaged can at times, be a challenge. The teaching of history in elementary, middle, and high schools is challenging enough, and student engagement can be a complex puzzle to solve. Teachers strive to find ways to spark students’ interest and […]
1.6 Million Images Uploaded in October!
October 2023 – Advantage Archives uploaded 1.6 million images to different Community History Archives, providing FREE digital access to local history!
Enriching Your Archive with Yearbooks for Research and Genealogy
The Benefits of Digitizing Yearbooks Yearbooks are a window into the past of your community. More than any other material, they offer a snapshot of what life was like at a particular time or moment, on a local level. They open the door to a familiar past for individuals diving into genealogical research, or just […]
This Day in History: Norway Tigers’ Triumphant Finale – The Real Story Behind “The Final Season”
Norway, a small town in Iowa, was renowned for baseball. Since the early 20th century, baseball was woven into the town’s identity. It was more than just a sport; it was a community bonding activity, a source of pride and joy. The local high school team, the Norway Tigers, started making headlines in The Cedar […]
The Digital Revolution: Why Digitizing Microfilm Beats Microfilm Readers
While microfilm preservation undoubtedly remains the preeminent method for safeguarding paper-based media, the essentiality of digitization for accessibility cannot be understated. The Community History Archives champions this cause, delivering unencumbered digital access for the end-user and incurring no recurrent financial obligations for the institutions. “While microfilm undeniably retains its prestige as an unparalleled medium for […]