Massachusetts Historical Society
The Massachusetts Historical Society, founded in 1791, collects and communicates materials that promote an understanding of American history. Free and open to all, the MHS offers resources for students, teachers, historians, and the public
Part of:
Inaugural Partners
Contributes To:
11 collections
35 primary sources
Part of:
Inaugural Partners
Contributes To:
11 collections
35 primary sources
About
The Massachusetts Historical Society, founded in 1791, is the oldest organization in the United States devoted to collecting materials for the study of American history. Its extraordinary collections tell the story of America through millions of rare and unique documents, artifacts, and irreplaceable national treasures. Free and open to the public, our library has significant primary resources for historians, academics, students, teachers, and the historically curious. The MHS is dedicated to strengthening K-12 education in Massachusetts and beyond by providing ever-expanding access to our unparalleled collections. We serve teachers and students through National History Day in Massachusetts (NHD), teacher professional development, and robust online resources including HistorySource.org.
Collection Contributions
(11)
Pivotal Battles and Events of the Revolutionary War
The pivotal battles of the American Revolution, like Bunker Hill (1775) and Yorktown (1781), shaped the path toward independence. This collection helps students explore the strategies, struggles, and stories of individuals on both sides, showing how these key moments impacted the journey toward self-governance.
Celebrations in America
This collection introduces the history and significance of U.S. national holidays and how Americans have celebrated occasions over the years.
Learning to Think Historically
Historical thinking helps students uncover the stories behind artifacts, events, and ideas. This collection invites students to ask questions, evaluate sources, and understand how the past connects to today, giving them tools to see history as an ongoing, ever-evolving conversation.
Paradox of Independence - Not Freedom for All
While the Revolution was fought for the right to “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness” people of African descent were not included or protected under the newly created government of the United States. This collection invites students to examine the experiences of those who heard the calls for liberty, but were denied full membership in the new nation.
Branches of U.S. Government
The three branches of government—Executive, Legislative, and Judicial—work together to ensure fair and balanced decision-making. This collection helps students explore how each branch operates, why checks and balances matter, and how these structures empower communities to have a voice in governance.
The American Revolution: An Overview
The American Revolution was a fight about self-governance and change. This collection includes primary sources and short, educational videos that allow upper elementary students to explore the political, economic, and social forces that affected the American Revolutionary War.
Economic Factors Leading to the American Revolution
Economic pressures from British taxes sparked a desire for self-governance in the colonies. The resources in this collection are designed to help students understand what “no taxation without representation” meant and how this sentiment shaped a movement toward independence.
Economic Factors Leading to the American Revolution
Economic pressures played a big role in sparking the American Revolution. In this collection, students explore how taxes, like the Stamp Act and Tea Act, and events like the Boston Tea Party, pushed colonial communities to challenge Great Britain.
Civic Virtues
Discover how civic virtues, like honesty, respect, and empathy, help communities thrive. These character traits remind us that everyone can contribute to their community, whether by listening, helping others, or standing up for what’s right.
Celebrations and Remembrances in the United States
Celebrations and remembrances bring people together to honor important moments and stories. From Memorial Day to Juneteenth, students will explore diverse traditions, considering how communities remember and celebrate their shared histories while grappling with fairness and inclusion.
Social Studies Skills: Maps
Maps help us explore and understand the world. They show where things are, how places connect, and even tell stories about people and communities. Students will learn to use tools like the compass rose and map keys to both read maps and consider the perspective of the mapmaker.
Resource Contributions
(35)
poster
Prospect Hill. Bunker's Hill.
document
Paul Revere Deposition of the Midnight Ride, 1775
document
A Plan of Boston, and its Environs Shewing the True Situation of His Majesty's Army
poster
A List of the Names of the Provincials who were Killed and Wounded in the late Engagement with His Majesty's Troops at Concord, &c.
artifact
Relief Ellery's teaspoons
poster
Early Broadside of the Declaration of Independence
