Korea: The Forgotten War (Part 2) US National Archives 2023-08-03 | The “ashes” of World War II were still smoldering as two conflicting ideologies collided in a far-away country, Korea, occupied by the Soviet Union and the United States. North Korea wasinfluenced by its communist neighbor and in 1950 launched an invasion of South Korea. The “seesaw” war continued for three years until a ceasefire was agreed to in July 1953. In commemoration of the 70th anniversary of the Korean War Armistice, and in partnership with the United States Army Heritage and Education Center (USAHEC), U.S. Army War College (USAWC), we present two virtual panel discussions. In the morning program, Conrad Crane, USAWC Faculty, will discuss the war’s overall strategic and operational efforts, and Kaleb Dissinger, USAHEC Curator, will discuss the USAHEC collections that are available online and in person. The afternoon session will address some of the changes that occurred during this time, specifically, the changing roles of African Americans and women in the military presented by Michael Lynch, USAWC Faculty, and Britta Granrud of the Military Women’s Memorial.For Live Captioning use: streamtext.net/player?event=24644-NARA-Korean.WarPart 1: youtube.com/watch?v=yhej-kkjqtA
SLTPS-PAC Meeting September 20, 2023 US National Archives 2023-09-27 | State, Local, Tribal and Private Sector Policy Advisory Committee Meeting.Held virtually September 20, 2023William Fischer, Acting ChairInformation Security Oversight OfficeModerator:Heather Harris PagánPrincipal for Operations and Industrial SecurityInformation Security Oversight OfficeNational Archives and Records Administration
Chief FOIA Officers Council Meeting US National Archives 2023-09-22 | Chief FOIA Officers Council MeetingNovember 9, 202310:00 AM Eastern
National Archives Comes Alive! Young Learners Program: Meet John Jay US National Archives 2023-09-22 | Phil Webster will portray John Jay, one of the nation’s founding fathers. A delegate of the First Continental Congress, and later a member of the provincial Congress, he eventually became president of the Continental Congress. Jay was responsible for writing New York’s first Constitution. He served as a diplomat during the Revolutionary War and then authored five essays in the Federalist Papers in support of the U.S. Constitution. Many of his papers are searchable in Founders Online. Jay was appointed first Chief Justice and served from 1789 to 1795. He negotiated the Jay Treaty of 1794 with Great Britain to settle lingering grievances from the Revolutionary War. He was an attorney, and diplomat, and helped maintain neutrality for the new nation of the United States.For live captioning, use: streamtext.net/player?event=25435-NARA-Comes.Alive
Blazing Pencils US National Archives 2023-09-20 | National Archives Identifier: 296758200Local Identifier: 64.71 catalog.archives.gov/id/296758200Creator(s): National Archives and Records Administration.Series: Moving Images Relating to National Archives Activities and Events, 1985-1995Record Group 64: Records of the National Archives and Records AdministrationContact(s): National Archives at College Park - Motion Pictures (RRSM) National Archives at College Park 8601 Adelphi Road College Park, MD 20740-6001 Phone: 301-837-3540 Email: mopix@nara.gov
2023 Annual Constitution Day Naturalization Ceremony US National Archives 2023-09-19 | September 15, 2023 in the Rotunda of the National Archives and Records Administration, Washington D.C.Presiding:The Honorable James E. BoasbergChief Judge, U.S. District Court for the District of ColumbiaOpening Court:Mr. Bryant JohnsonRecords Specialist, U.S. District Court for the District of ColumbiaPresentation of the Colors:Color Guard from the U.S. Navy Honor GuardRecognition by the Court:Ms. Kia LangfordDeputy Clerk, U.S. District Court for the District of ColumbiaOath of Allegiance:The Honorable James E. BoasbergPledge of Allegiance:Mr. Bryant JohnsonPreamble of the U.S. Constitution:Alice Deal Middle SchoolDistrict of Columbia Public SchoolWelcome Remarks:Dr. Colleen J. ShoganArchivist of the United StatesKeynote Remarks:Rev. Eugene ChoBread for the WorldClosing Remarks:The Honorable James E. BoasbergClosing of Court:Mr. Bryant Johnson
The Constitution is a living force... -President Truman #CivicsForAllOfUS US National Archives 2023-09-18 | President Harry Truman's address at the dedication of the new shrine for the Declaration of Independence, Constitution, and the Bill of Rights at the National Archives. 12/15/1952. civics.archives.gov catalog.archives.gov/id/12063Full sound recording from the Truman Presidential Library and Museum: trumanlibrary.gov/soundrecording-records/sr70-50-president-trumans-address-dedication-new-shrine-declaration
Why Teach the Constitution? US National Archives 2023-09-15 | We asked our 2023 Civics for All of US Teacher Institute Cohort, “what was it like, seeing the original Constitution in the Rotunda of the National Archives? and “why is it important to teach the Constitution?Civics for All of US is the national civic education initiative of the National Archives. Our interactive distance learning programs for students and teachers draw upon the vast holdings of the National Archives to promote the knowledge, skills, and dispositions students need for civic engagement in the 21st century. Each program is led by one of our educators located at National Archives sites, the Center for Legislative Archives, and Presidential Libraries across the country. Learn more here: civics.archives.govWatch the video playlist: youtube.com/playlist?list=PLugwVCjzrJsXgVK87VtTzCbp4vzZsLcRx&si=QV7ixC-iYz1BC2AV
What is Constitution Day? #CivicsForAllOfUS #shorts US National Archives 2023-09-15 | Constitution Day, celebrated annually on September 17, commemorates the signing of the United States Constitution. See the Constitution in high resolution on the National Archives website: docsteach.org/documents/document/constitution Brush up on your civics knowledge with easy-to-understand videos from the National Archives education initiative, Civics for All of US. civics.archives.gov
Can You Name the Three Branches of Government? US National Archives 2023-09-14 | The Constitution of the United States set up the three branches of government of the United States. Learn about the different jobs of each branch and brush up on your civics knowledge with easy-to-understand videos from the National Archives education initiative: Civics For All of US. civics.archives.gov Featured documents: docsteach.org/shared-documents/favorite/Mjk3Mjc=00:00 The Constitution00:15 The Legislative Branch00:33 The Executive Branch00:49 The Judicial Branch01:12 The National Archives01:25 Civics for All of US
Provost Marshal General & Enemy Prisoners of War Held in the U.S. during World War II (2023 Sept 13) US National Archives 2023-09-13 | The Records of the Provost Marshal General and Enemy Prisoners of War Held in the United States during World War II by Rachael Salyer Rachael Salyer is a Subject Matter Expert in Modern Military Records and an Archivist from the National Archives at College Park, MD⇒ Presentation Slides: archives.gov/files/calendar/know-your-records/handouts-presentations/2023-09-13-salyer-presentation.pdf⇒ Handout: archives.gov/files/calendar/know-your-records/handouts-presentations/2023-09-13-salyer-handout.pdf ⇒ Transcript: Request from KYR@nara.gov⇒ Event Evaluation Form: surveymonkey.com/r/KYREventEval⇒ Know Your Records web page: archives.gov/calendar/know-your-records During World War II, the United States established hundreds of prisoner of war (POW or PW) camps, which held an estimated 425,000 German, Italian, and Japanese prisoners. Archivist Rachael Salyer will discuss the records of these camps created by the Office of the Provost Marshal General (OPMG). She will provide an overview of their establishment and construction, and then will focus on how and where to locate records related to specific camps. Finally, she will also provide suggestions for how to begin researching individual prisoners, as well as camp staff and assigned units.00:00 - Welcome 01:04 - Introduction and presenter biography02:28 - Presentation overview to Records of the Provost Marshal General03:12 - WWI: History of the Provost Marshal General in other wars / POWs in WWI07:24 - WWII: Establishment of the Office of the Provost Marshal General in WWII09:30 - Organizational chart of the Office of the Provost Marshal General, April 194415:13 - Post WWII: Office of the Provost Marshal General Post-WWII15:57 - Record Group 389: Records of the Office of the Provost Marshal General - what is and is not available16:50 - Record Group 389 - using the National Archives Catalog to research 17:40 - “Creating Organization Authority Records” in the National Archives Catalog19:13 - Finding records related to specific camps22:43 - Records on the Corps of Military Police during WWII23:07 - Other records in Record Group 38923:35 - Sample records from Record Group 38934:05 - Related records and other resources36:44 - Contact us36:55 - Closing, Event Survey, Other Resources37:29 - Questions and Answers in the chat
For the People, For the Country: Patrick Henry’s Final Political Battle US National Archives 2023-09-13 | In 1799, at the behest of President George Washington, Patrick Henry came out of retirement to defend the Constitution that he had once opposed and to thwart Thomas Jefferson and James Madison, whom Washington accused of putting party over country and threatening the fragile union. In For the People, For the Country, author John A. Ragosta will discuss the remarkable story of how the most eloquent public speaker of the American Revolutionary era and a leading Antifederalist during debates over ratification of the Constitution reemerged on the side of the Federalists and once again changed history.Presented in celebration of Constitution DayFor live-only captions: streamtext.net/player?event=25305-NARA-For.The.People
How the Constitution Came to the National Archives #CivicsForAllOfUS #ConstitutionDay US National Archives 2023-09-12 | Learn how the Constitution was transferred, along with the Declaration of Independence, to join the Bill of Rights at the National Archives. Brush up on your civics knowledge with easy-to-understand videos from the National Archives education initiative, Civics for All of US. civics.archives.gov Featured documents: docsteach.org/shared-documents/favorite/Mjk3MjM=
Ceremonial Swearing-In Ceremony for 11th Archivist of the United States Dr. Colleen Shogan US National Archives 2023-09-12 | On Monday, September 11, at 5 p.m.ET, the National Archives and the National Archives Foundation will hold the ceremonial swearing-in ceremony for the 11th Archivist of the United States Dr. Colleen Shogan. Supreme Court Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr. will preside over the ceremony in the National Archives Museum’s Rotunda in Washington, DC. First Lady Dr. Jill Biden will provide remarks. On August 3, 2022, President Joseph R. Biden nominated Dr. Colleen Shogan to be Archivist of the United States. The U.S. Senate confirmed Dr. Shogan on May 10, 2023, and she took the oath of office to begin work on May 17, 2023.Learn more about Dr. Shogan at www.archives.gov/about/organization/senior-staff/archivist, or follow her on Twitter and Instagram at @AOTUS11_ShoganFor live-only captions: streamtext.net/player?event=25213-NARA-Dr.Shogans.Swearing.In
Young Learners Program: 11th Archivist of the United States: Dr. Colleen Shogan US National Archives 2023-09-08 | Dr. Colleen Shogan began her tenure as the 11th Archivist of the United States in May 2023. Join us for a lively interview with our new Archivist to understand the role the Archivist plays in keeping records of our country safe, find out how you can help our mission of making records accessible to all, and learn how to become a “citizen archivist.” Dr. Shogan will be interviewed by National Archives Education Specialist Breanne Robertson.
Hispanic Medal of Honor Recipients US National Archives 2023-09-08 | Since the creation of the Medal of Honor by the United States Congress in 1861, 60 Americans of Hispanic heritage have been awarded the nation’s highest decoration for bravery and self-sacrifice in combat. Based on meticulous research, author Michael Lee Lanning has assembled authoritative accounts of these heroic individuals and their deeds of valor, from the American Civil War through the most recent campaigns in the Middle East.
FOIA Advisory Committee Meeting US National Archives 2023-09-08 | FOIA Advisory Committee Meeting10:00 AM EasternFor live-only captions: streamtext.net/player?event=25156-NARA-FOIA.Advisory.Committee
First Amendment in Action: Kids Letters #CivicsForAllOfUS #shorts US National Archives 2023-09-07 | See the First Amendment in action through letters that kids have written to the Federal Government as part of their right to “petition the government for a redress of grievances.”These letters are now part of the holdings of the National Archives and have been digitized and added to our online Catalog. Brush up on your civics knowledge with easy-to-understand videos from the National Archives education initiative, Civics for All of US. civics.archives.govFeatured documents: docsteach.org/shared-documents/favorite/Mjk3MTU=
Shipwrecked: A True Civil War Story of Mutinies, Jailbreaks, Blockade-Running, and the Slave Trade US National Archives 2023-09-07 | Historian Jonathan W. White will tell the story of Appleton Oaksmith, a sea captain whose life intersected with some of the most important moments, movements, and individuals of the mid-19th century, including the California Gold Rush, filibustering schemes, the Civil War, and Reconstruction. The book depicts the extraordinary lengths the Lincoln administration went to destroy the illegal trans-Atlantic slave trade.For live captioning, use: streamtext.net/player?event=25116-NARA-Shipwrecked
60th Anniversary of the March on Washington Film Screening US National Archives 2023-08-26 | Join us for a film screening and discussion of director James Blue’s 1964 film The March, which documented the 1963 March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom, which took place on August 28, 1963. Speakers include David A. Frank, Professor of Rhetoric at the University of Oregon. The film was produced by the United States Information Agency (USIA).The March, (1963, restored) can be viewed here: youtube.com/watch?v=DQYzHIIQ1O4For live-only captions: streamtext.net/player?event=24777-NARA-609th.Anniversary.March.on.Washington
National Archives Comes Alive! Young Learners Program: Meet Bessie Coleman US National Archives 2023-08-18 | Bessie Coleman was an American aviator in the early 20th century. Facing discrimination in America, Coleman went to France to earn an international pilot’s license. While abroad, she learned aerial stunts along with parachuting and performed at various air shows. As a public speaker, she supported Black aviation and intended to teach future generations about aviation. Bessie Coleman is portrayed by Daisy Century of American Historical Theatre.This program is made possible in part by the National Archives Foundation.
The Summer of 1876: Outlaws, Lawmen, and Legends in the Season That Defined the American West US National Archives 2023-08-17 | The summer of 1876 was a key time period in the development of the mythology of the Old West. Many individuals who are considered legends by modern readers, Wyatt Earp, Bat Masterson, Wild Bill Hickok, and Jesse James. Author Chris Wimmer weaves together the timelines of the events that made these men legends to demonstrate the overlapping context of their stories and to illustrate the historical importance of that summer, all layered with highlights of significant milestones in 1876: the inaugural baseball season of the National League; the final year of President Ulysses S. Grant’s embattled administration; the debut of an invention called the telephone by Alexander Graham Bell; the release of Mark Twain’s novel “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer;” and many more. Contextualizing these events against the backdrop of the massive 100th anniversary party thrown to celebrate the signing of the Declaration of Independence. For live captioning use: streamtext.net/player?event=24710-NARA-Summer.of.1876
Know Your Records - Sound Recordings of the World War II Era by Ashley S. Behringer (2023 Aug 10) US National Archives 2023-08-10 | Sound Recordings of the World War II Era by Ashley S. BehringerAshley S. Behringer is an Archivist in the Moving Image and Sound Branch from the National Archives at College Park, MD⇒ Presentation Slides: archives.gov/files/calendar/know-your-records/handouts-presentations/2023-08-10-behringer-presentation.pdf⇒ Handout:archives.gov/files/calendar/know-your-records/handouts-presentations/2023-08-10-behringer-handout.pdf⇒ Transcript: Request from KYR@nara.gov⇒ Event Evaluation Form: surveymonkey.com/r/KYREventEval⇒ Know Your Records web page: archives.gov/calendar/know-your-records You have probably seen famous newsreel footage of World War II held at the National Archives. But have you heard the audio recordings? For many contemporary people, news of the war was primarily a listening experience. Breaking news, radio dramas, speeches, and music reached the ears of the civilian and soldier alike. This presentation explores World War II audio holdings of the National Archives Moving Image and Sound Branch.00:00 - Welcome00:54 - Introduction to presentation and presenters biography02:10 - Unique aspects of the Moving Image and Sound Branch (RRSM)05:15 - National Archives Catalog Search Demonstration07:29 - Sound recording technologies during WWII10:11 - Key series for researchers interested in WWII audio11:55 - Example audio recording from GENERALa (runs 3:55)16:31 - Voice of America series17:16 - Army General Staff Council series18:36 - Department of the Interior series19:21 - Sound recordings regarding enemies20:58 - Sound recordings regarding treason investigations23:12 - Audio recordings relating to WWII War Crimes Trials24:16 - Donated collections26:03 - Recordings related to Japanese-American Internment27:06 - Mixed media recordings: Radio on Film28:25 - Example mixed media recording (runs 4:11)32:36 - Rights issues34:19 - Helpful links and contact information35:20 - Closing, Event Survey, Other Resources36:00 - Questions and Answers in the chat#KnowYourRecords
Promo for https://youtu.be/pZnMrKz8CBQ #knowyourrecords US National Archives 2023-08-10 | Promotional video short for the "Civilian Conservation Corps Indian Division on the Reservation" presentation by the Subject Matter Expert for Native American Related Records and an Archivist from the National Archives at Denver Cody White.youtu.be/pZnMrKz8CBQ
The Fly Girls Revolt: The Story of the Women Who Kicked Open the Door to Fly in Combat US National Archives 2023-08-09 | Author Eileen A. Bjorkman will tell the untold story of the women military aviators of the 1970s and 1980s who kicked open the door to fly in combat in 1993—along with the story of the women who paved the way before them. In 1993, U.S. women earned the right to fly in combat, but the full story of how it happened is largely unknown. From the first women in the military in World War II to the final push in the 1990s, The Fly Girls Revolt chronicles the actions of a band of women who overcame decades of discrimination and prevailed. Drawing on extensive research, interviews with women who served in the 1970s and 1980s, and her personal experiences in the Air Force, Eileen Bjorkman weaves together a riveting tale of the women who fought for the right to enter combat and be treated as equal partners in the U.S. military. Joining the author in conversation will be Margie Clark Varuska, USAF Lieutenant Colonel (Ret), C-141 pilot, and a member of the first class of women to attend the USAF Academy.For live captioning, use: streamtext.net/player?event=24687-NARA-Fly.Girls.Revolt
Korea: The Forgotten War (Part 1) US National Archives 2023-08-03 | The “ashes” of World War II were still smoldering as two conflicting ideologies collided in a far-away country, Korea, occupied by the Soviet Union and the United States. North Korea was influenced by its communist neighbor and in 1950 launched an invasion of South Korea. The “seesaw” war continued for three years until a ceasefire was agreed to in July 1953. In commemoration of the 70th anniversary of the Korean War Armistice, and in partnership with the United States Army Heritage and Education Center (USAHEC), U.S. Army War College (USAWC), we present two virtual panel discussions. In the morning program, Conrad Crane, USAWC Faculty, will discuss the war’s overall strategic and operational efforts, and Kaleb Dissinger, USAHEC Curator, will discuss the USAHEC collections that are available online and in person. The afternoon session will address some of the changes that occurred during this time, specifically, the changing roles of African Americans and women in the military presented by Michael Lynch, USAWC Faculty, and Britta Granrud of the Military Women’s Memorial.For Live Captioning, use: streamtext.net/player?event=24644-NARA-Korean.WarPart 2: youtube.com/watch?v=I0hLTigxNdY
National Industrial Security Program Policy Advisory Committee Meeting 6/5/2023* US National Archives 2023-08-02 | National Industrial Security Program Policy Advisory Committee (NISPPAC)Held June 5, 2023, New Orleans, LA*AUDIO AND TECHNICAL DIFFICULTIES at various points throughout PROGRAMAGENDA:Welcome, Introductions, and Administrative Matters 10 minsAction Item Follow Up 5 minsReports and UpdatesIndustry Update 20 minsDepartment of Defense (DoD) Update 20 minsDefense Counterintelligence and Security Agency (DCSA) Update 20 minsOffice of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI) Update 10 minsSecurity Executive AgentDepartment of Homeland Security (DHS) Update 5 minsDepartment of Energy (DOE) Update 5 minsNuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) Update 5 minsCentral Intelligence Agency (CIA) Update 5 minsWorking Group (WG) Update 5 minsClearance Working Group (CWG) 10 minsNISPPAC Information Systems Authorization (NISA) WG 10 minsDOE 5 minsNRC 5 minsDefense Office of Hearings and Appeals (DOHA) Update 5 minsControlled Unclassified Information (CUI) Update 5 minsGeneral Discussion, Remarks and Adjournment 5 mins
Now on display at the National Archives Museum: Executive Orders 9980 and 9981 US National Archives 2023-07-27 | On July 26, 1948, President Truman signed Executive Orders 9980 and 9981, ending racial segregation in the federal workforce and in the U.S. Armed Forces.In honor of the 75th anniversary, these two original documents will be on display from July 25 to August 1, 2023, in the West Rotunda Gallery of the National Archives Museum.In 1940, President Franklin D. Roosevelt upheld segregation in the Armed Forces, believing integration would threaten military efficiency and increase racial tension. President Harry S. Truman eventually organized a Presidential committee and based part of his 1948 campaign on civil rights. After winning that election, Truman was stymied by congressional inaction and called for a special session of Congress. On July 26, President Truman signed Executive Orders 9980 and 9981 ending racial segregation in the federal workforce and in the U.S. Armed Forces. Without Congress’s blessing, the President of the United States can issue an executive order, which carries the force of law. Truman and his advisers hoped a desegregated military and workforce could be a model for the rest of American society. Tune in at 7:30 p.m. ET, on Thursday, July 27, and join us for the keynote address, “Freedom to Serve,” hosted at the National Archives Building as part of the Truman Civil Rights Symposium. Livestream: youtube.com/watch?v=olpIyHKlmgYReel: Jennifer Johnson, curator, shows Executive Order 9980, Regulations Governing Fair Employment Practices Within the Federal Establishment, and Executive Order 9981, Establishing the President’s Committee on Equality of Treatment and Opportunity in the Armed Services. Both documents show Harry S. Truman’s signature and the date July 26, 1948.
Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness: Britain and the American Dream US National Archives 2023-07-27 | Peter Moore’s Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness tells the true story of what may be the most successful import in U.S. history: the “American dream.” Centered on the friendship between Benjamin Franklin and the British publisher William Strahan—and featuring figures including the cultural giant Samuel Johnson, the ground-breaking historian Catharine Macaulay, the firebrand politician John Wilkes, and revolutionary activist Thomas Paine—this book looks at the generation that preceded the Declaration in 1776. Moore argues that everyone, it seemed, had “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness” on their minds and reveals how these ideals made their way across an ocean and started a revolution.For live-only captions: streamtext.net/player?event=24545-NARA-Life.Liberty.Pursuit.of.Happiness
The National Archives Comes Alive! Young Learners Program - Meet Ulysses S. Grant US National Archives 2023-07-21 | Ulysses S. Grant was the 18th President of the United States. After graduating West Point Military Academy, Grant served in the Mexican American War and later the U.S. Civil War for the Union. He rose through the ranks after a significant win at the battle of Vicksburg. Known for excellent horsemanship, dogged determination, and strategic maneuvering, he was eventually appointed as Commander of the Union Army (1864–65). His military accomplishments led to his nomination and two Presidential terms. Ulysses S. Grant is portrayed by Curt Fields.This program is made possible in part by the National Archives Foundation.
Union Veterans’ Battle for Equality Through Reconstruction, Jim Crow, and the Lost Cause US National Archives 2023-07-21 | One More War to Fight: Union Veterans’ Battle for Equality Through Reconstruction, Jim Crow, and the Lost CauseStephen A. Goldman looks at the contentious post–Civil War era from the perspective of Union soldiers who supported the civil rights efforts of black comrades and of African Americans overall. He explores the root causes of this historic contest, the changing attitudes of northern servicemen with respect to the Civil War’s purpose, and the psychological effect of involvement in what, from hindsight, was an unfinished work in the cause of freedom and equality for all Americans. A book signing will follow the program.For live-only captions: streamtext.net/player?event=24433-NARA-One.More.War.to.Fight
First Family: George Washingtons Heirs and the Making of America US National Archives 2023-07-19 | Award-winning historian Cassandra A. Good shows how the outspoken step-grandchildren of George Washington played an overlooked but important role in the development of American society and politics from the Revolution to the Civil War. In First Family, we see Washington as a father figure, as well as meet the children he helped raise, and trace their complicated roles in American history. The children of Martha Washington’s son by her first marriage—Eliza, Patty, Nelly, and Wash Custis—were born into life in the public eye. Raised in the country’s first “first family,” they remained well known as Washington’s family and keepers of his legacy throughout their lives.For live captioning, use: streamtext.net/player?event=24467-NARA-First.Family.George.Washington
Remembering the 1973 fire at the National Personnel Records Center US National Archives 2023-07-13 | Fifty years ago, over 16 million veterans' records were consumed in a massive blaze on the sixth floor of the National Personnel Records Center (NPRC) in St. Louis, MO.Local firefighters responded immediately, but the fire was so intense that they were forced to retreat as their masks began to melt on their faces.Hailed as an architectural wonder when it was built in 1956, the NPRC was second only to the Pentagon in size at the time. Two NFL regulation football fields would fit comfortably within each of its six floors with room to spare. It had no sprinklers in the records storage areas and few firewalls in the building. Ultimately, it was a recipe for disaster.The fire burned uncontrolled for more than 22 hours. After the fire was officially declared “out,” water stood on every floor of the building, and burnt and waterlogged records could be seen among the debris.Without the dedicated service of the first responders, our loss would have been far greater. Fifty years later, we are still thankful to the fire departments that came to our aid.This event—unprecedented in the scale of its damage to federal records—changed how the National Archives builds its facilities, maintains its holdings, and serves veterans and the public. To learn more, visit www.archives.gov/news***Audio recorded by the North Central County Fire Alarm System
The Continental Dollar: How the American Revolution Was Financed with Paper Money US National Archives 2023-07-13 | The Continental Dollar is a revelatory history of how the fledgling United States paid for its first war. Farley Grubb upends the common telling of this story, in which the United States printed Continentals to serve as an early fiat currency—a currency that is not tied to a commodity like gold but rather to a legal authority. As Grubb details, the Continental was not a fiat currency but a “zero-coupon bond”—a wholly different species of money. As bond payoffs were pushed into the future, the money’s value declined, killing the Continentals’ viability years before the Revolutionary War would officially end.
Meet Frederick Douglass US National Archives 2023-07-05 | Meet Frederick Douglass, abolitionist, orator, writer, and statesman. Douglass escaped from slavery in 1838. He became an influential force in the abolition movement with his powerful speeches, including “What to the Slave is the Fourth of July,” and his antislavery newspaper, The North Star. Douglass continued to fight for rights of African Americans after slavery was abolished with the 13th Amendment. Douglass is portrayed by Phil Darius Wallace, actor, director, and writer.
July 4th - Declaration of Independence Reading Ceremony 2023 US National Archives 2023-07-05 | Join us now for our annual celebration of Independence Day at the National Archives, the permanent home of the original Declaration of Independence.This year, the new Archivist of the United States, Dr. Colleen Shogan, will welcome the crowds! Allison Seymour of WUSA9 News returns as our ceremony host. The keynote speech will be given by Doug Williams, Senior Advisor to the President of the Washington Commanders. Special guests George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, Ben Franklin, Ned Hector, and Abigail Adams will give a dramatic reading of the Declaration of Independence, complete with leading the audience to boo and huzzah like the colonists of 1776!The Continental Color Guard and the Fife and Drum Corps of the 3rd United States Infantry “Old Guard” will also take part in the celebration. Dr. Kimberly Hess and the Marymount University Chamber Choir will perform the National Anthem, and soprano Millicent Scarlett will close out the event with “America the Beautiful.”To learn more about the Declaration of Independence, visit archives.gov/founding-docs/declaration.July 4th at the National Archives is made possible in part by the National Archives Foundation through the generous support of John Hancock and Dykema.#ArchivesJuly4 #CivicSeason
National Treasure Hunt: One Step Short of Crazy US National Archives 2023-07-02 | In this book, Aubrey Paris and Emily Black, hosts of the National Treasure Hunt podcast, set the record straight, taking a scene-by-scene approach to prove that the 2004 film National Treasure, like protagonist Benjamin Franklin Gates, is not crazy but rather one step short. Their analyses unearth lesser-known stories from history while considering the ethics of character decisions, assessing comparisons with similar film franchises, interpreting key deleted scenes, and revealing behind-the-scenes secrets from filming. A book signing will follow the program.For live captioning, use: streamtext.net/player?event=24274-NARA-National.Treasure.Hunt
Interview with Archivist of the United States Colleen Shogan US National Archives 2023-06-30 | Dr. Colleen Shogan began her tenure as the 11th Archivist of the United States in May 2023, launching what she intends to be a tenure focused on improving access to and expanding the reach of the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). Shogan laid out her hopes for the agency in an interview with National Archives News writer-editor Victoria Macchi during her first week as Archivist: archives.gov/news/articles/aotus-shogan-interview
1774: The Year in Acts and Petitions US National Archives 2023-06-30 | The Boston Gazette Print Shop sets the stage for a discussion of recent news including the Quartering Act, Manumission Petitions, and the Suffolk Resolves when Abigail Adams and Jeffrey Brace stop in and talk with Mrs. Benjamin Edes. This is part 5 of a 5-part video series: "The Road to the Declaration of Independence: Year 1774." Follow along this historic road on the National Archives Youtube channel playlist: youtube.com/playlist?list=PLugwVCjzrJsUSzs6Au6u_QnQBpR8nfHQKThis program is presented in partnership with the National Archives Foundation and American Historical Theatre. Abigail Adams is portrayed by Kim Hanley, Mrs. Benjamin Edes is portrayed by Jill Lawrence, and Jeffrey Brace is portrayed by Keith Henley.
The Continental Association and the Resolves of the First Continental Congress US National Archives 2023-06-29 | John Dickinson details his Petition to the King asking Britain to repeal the Intolerable Acts. As a delegate to the First Continental Congress representing Pennsylvania, he further details the resolves made by the First Continental Congress, known as the Continental Association (Articles of Association), and how those resolutions will affect trade for both the colonists and the British.This is part 4 of a 5-part video series: "The Road to the Declaration of Independence: Year 1774." Follow along this historic road on the National Archives Youtube channel playlist: youtube.com/playlist?list=PLugwVCjzrJsUSzs6Au6u_QnQBpR8nfHQKThis program is presented in partnership with the National Archives Foundation and American Historical Theatre. John Dickinson is portrayed by Doug Thomas.
The Road to The First Continental Congress US National Archives 2023-06-28 | By the summer of 1774, John Adams was a delegate to the First Continental Congress for the state of Massachusetts. As John and Abigail Adams discuss preparations for his trip to Congress in Philadelphia, they share the hardships and events of their temporary separation and look to a future that will include many more years of struggle on the Road to Independence.This is part 3 of a 5-part video series: "The Road to the Declaration of Independence: Year 1774." Follow along this historic road on the National Archives Youtube channel playlist: youtube.com/playlist?list=PLugwVCjzrJsUSzs6Au6u_QnQBpR8nfHQKThis program is presented in partnership with the National Archives Foundation and American Historical Theatre. John Adams is portrayed by Peyton Dixon. Abigail Adams is portrayed by Kim Hanley.
Seven Virginians: The Men Who Shaped Our Republic US National Archives 2023-06-28 | Author John B Boyles reveals the integral role played by seven major Virginians before, during, and after the American Revolution: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, James Monroe, George Mason, Patrick Henry, and John Marshall. Most accounts of the founding generation focus only on the activities of the “big three”—Washington, Jefferson, and Madison—but Boles incorporates the key contributions of these other four important figures to the political and legal structures that govern the United States to this day. At the same time, Boles will discuss the Revolutionary generation’s problems and their fading from the scene, inaugurating the beginnings of Virginia’s political decline in the early 19th century. Joining the author in conversation will be John Ragosta, Acting Saunders Director of the Robert H. Smith International Center for Jefferson Studies at Monticello.For live captioning, use: streamtext.net/player?event=24275-NARA-Seven.Virginians
A Summary View of the Rights of British America in 1774 US National Archives 2023-06-27 | As 1774 brings many changes to the life of Thomas Jefferson, he shares his sentiments on the recent British Parliamentary (Intolerable) Act and outlines a path forward for colonists. This is part 2 of a 5-part video series: "The Road to the Declaration of Independence: Year 1774." Follow along this historic road on the National Archives Youtube channel playlist: youtube.com/playlist?list=PLugwVCjzrJsUSzs6Au6u_QnQBpR8nfHQKThis program is presented in partnership with the National Archives Foundation and American Historical Theatre. Thomas Jefferson is portrayed by Steve Edenbo.
75th Anniversary of the Berlin Airlift and Operation Little Vittles US National Archives 2023-06-26 | June 26, 2023, marks the 75th anniversary of the start of the Berlin Airlift in 1948.At the end of World War II, Germany had been divided into zones of occupation controlled by the Allied Powers: the United States, Great Britain, France, and the Soviet Union. The city of Berlin – nestled inside the Soviet zone of occupation – was divided into sectors, each controlled by a separate Allied Power.In June 1948, the Soviet Union blocked all ground access to the sectors of Berlin under Western control. Allies had to rely on airplanes to deliver supplies to people in West Berlin. From June 24, 1948, to May 12, 1949, planes flew constantly to supply the city of Berlin in what is known as the Berlin Airlift or Operation Vittles.This clip from the film “Operation Vittles” shows pilot Gail Halvorsen, who earned the nickname "Berlin Candy Bomber." For his "Little Vittles" operation, Halvorsen tied candy bars to small handkerchiefs so that the chocolate was borne on down as if on tiny parachutes to eagerly waiting children in Berlin.This film also shows how planes were arranged in the available air space to maximize the number of flights to drop food and fuel into Berlin.***Clip from Motion Picture 111-ADC-10314 “Operation Vittles,” 1948. National Archives Identifier 24076Full video: youtube.com/watch?v=_CEoQYQgXnA&t=31s
Gen Z and Civic Engagement: A Conversation with U.S. Representative Maxwell Frost US National Archives 2023-06-26 | Join Award-winning Journalist Soledad O’Brien in conversation with Congressman Maxwell Frost (FL-10), the only Gen Z member of Congress. The program will focus on the roles young people can play in civic life, and how citizens can engage with the political system from advocating to get a pothole fixed to voting to running for Congress. Opening remarks will be provided by National Archives Foundation Chair and President, Governor James J. Blanchard. This program is hosted in partnership by the National Archives and National Archives Foundation as part of Civic Season, an annual tradition that encourages young people to actively participate in our democracy and engage with public history institutions between Juneteenth and July 4th.
The Intolerable Acts! US National Archives 2023-06-26 | Lieutenant General Thomas Gage, Commander-in-Chief of His Royal Majesty’s forces in North America, explains what the Intolerable Acts meant for the American colonies. Also, Samuel Adams reads one of his many letters after the passage of the Boston Port Act, which became one of the catalysts for the First Continental Congress.This is part 1 of a 5-part video series: "The Road to the Declaration of Independence: Year 1774." Follow along this historic road on the National Archives Youtube channel playlist: youtube.com/playlist?list=PLugwVCjzrJsUSzs6Au6u_QnQBpR8nfHQKThis program is presented in partnership with the National Archives Foundation and American Historical Theatre. Thomas Gage is portrayed by Robert Gleason. Samuel Adams is voiced by Dave Holland.
2023 Genealogy Series - Closing Remarks (2023 June 14) US National Archives 2023-06-26 | Executive for Research Services Chris Naylor offers closing remarks for the 2023 Genealogy Series.Thank you for joining us! We offered six broadcasts over the weeks of May 3 to June 14, on the National Archives YouTube channel. Our experts from the National Archives discussed how to use military and civilian records in your genealogy research. Videos and presentation materials remain available for free.⇒ Details about the event and schedule: archives.gov/calendar/genealogy-series/2023⇒ 2023 Genealogy Series playlist: youtube.com/playlist?list=PLugwVCjzrJsW5LpOyGo7oYnc0FR0kqPW7⇒ Event Evaluation Form: surveymonkey.com/r/KYREventEval#Genealogy #KnowYourRecords #GenieSeries2023
Welcome to National History Day 2024 US National Archives 2023-06-23 | Learn about National History Day resources available from the National Archives. Explore DocsTeach in support of your NHD project for this year's theme - Turning Points in History. The theme is especially appropriate because National History Day is celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2024. Visit online resources here: docsteach.org/topics/nhd#NHD2024
Vigilance: The Life of William Still, Father of the Underground Railroad US National Archives 2023-06-22 | Author Andrew K. Diemer will discuss the remarkable and inspiring story of William Still, an unknown abolitionist who dedicated his life to managing a critical section of the Underground Railroad in Philadelphia, helping hundreds of people escape from slavery. As a conductor for the Underground Railroad, Still helped as many as eight hundred people escape enslavement. He also meticulously collected the letters, biographical sketches, arrival memos, and ransom notes of the escapees, and authored The Underground Railroad Records, an archive of primary documents that trace the narrative of what had been described as one of the most successful campaigns in American history. Diemer captures the full range and accomplishments of Still’s life, from his resistance to Fugitive Slave Laws and his relationship with John Brown before the war, to his long career fighting for citizenship rights and desegregation until the early twentieth century.This program and the Emancipation Proclamation and General Order No. 3 Featured Document Presentation is made possible in part by the National Archives Foundation through the generous support of The Boeing Company.For live captioning, use: streamtext.net/player?event=24173-NARA-Life.of.William.Still
