WWI: Influenza

Use this blog to share interesting research regarding the influenza pandemic of 1918-1919.  How did the war contribute to the spread of the flu?  Have we witnessed other huge flu outbreaks through history?  How might a superbug or flu situation impact the globe in your lifetime?

WWI: Struggle for Equality

Our WWI chapter highlights contributions of African-Americans and Mexican-Americans (and women) to the war effort.  How do you think the war impacted their struggles for equality?  Consider the postwar treatment of immigrants (Sacco & Vanzetti) and communists (Red Scare).  Why were these groups targeted?  Are certain ethnic groups targeted today?  Why?

WWI: Wilson & The League of Nations

President Wilson's 14 Points were innovative and idealistic.  Use this blog to discuss advantages/disadvantages to the creation of the League.  Why did the US refuse to join?  What world organization exists today for similar purposes at the League?  How effective is the UN?  Is "global cooperation" more possible today than in 1919?

WWI: Free Speech?

Consider how war changes the "rules" for the herd!  What acts/laws were passed during WWI to limit freedoms?  Why were these acts passed?  See text page 300 for the Schenck Case details.  What laws do we have in place today due to the War on Terror?  Have you heard of the Patriot Act?  Are these laws necessary?  How do you feel about restrictions placed on guaranteed Constitutional freedoms?

WWI: Fighting conditions

What conditions did the soldiers face on the battlefield?  Do some research/examine images from WWI.  Share what you find about the experiences of soldiers in the trenches.  (trench foot may interest you)   What conditions do soldiers face on contemporary battlefields?

WWI: Songs & Sheet Music

Two famous WWI American songs include "Over There" and "Keep the Home Fires Burning".  Examine sheet music and lyrics to these songs by searching online.  What images appear on the covers of the sheet music?  What is the goal of the lyrics?  Do we still create colorful sheet music covers today?  Are songs written about war today?

WWI: Flyboys--Truth and/or Fiction?

Enjoy viewing the Flyboys DVD!  (Fairview Library!)  What was "real" in the film and what was fiction?  How do you know?  How does Hollywood impact the public with movies that portray war?

WWI: Home Front

Do some research beyond the text book.  What are some specific examples of US activities on the Home Front, specifically connected to the war?  Consider sharing movie titles and plots, Red Cross efforts, the draft process, arrests for disloyalty, propaganda etc.  In today's "War on Terror" have Americans had to change behaviors?  Is there more ordinary Americans should be doing in the USA to help win the War on Terror?

WWI: Heroes....you decide!

Use this blog to find the names and contributions of The Great War heroes.   As a starting point you may want to consider researching the following (or find your own "hero").  Share what you find, and feel free to raise questions!  Do we STILL have war heroes in modern times?

• The Lafayette Escadrille is the name of the squadron portrayed in Flyboys.  You can find photos online that include the lion, Whiskey!
• Who was The Red Baron?  How is he viewed by Americans?
• Who was Eddie Rickenbacher?  What is he known for?
• Who is John J. Pershing?  What role did he play in WWI?

WWI: Innovative Weapons of War

Use this blog to share your reseach regarding innovative weapons designed and used during The Great War (World War I).  Were innovations helpful or harmful during the war?  What are examples of modern day weapon/warfare innovations?

1870-1920 USA: Charlie Chaplin & Other big screen stars

Consider the Hollywood stars of the Gilded Age and types of movies made.  Who were these people and what made them so popular?  How do the "stars" compare/contrast with contemporary big screen stars?  How do films of the 1870-1920 Era compare/contrast with today's films?

1870-1920 USA: Progressives

The Progressive movement in the US achieved many goals.  Provide some examples of successful reforms from the era we have been studying.  In what ways is US society progressive today?  What aspects of our society today most need "fixing"?

1870-1920 USA: US becomes a world power.

Why did the US emerge as a world power during this time period?  What are some examples of our "conquests" during the Gilded Age?  Do we still behave in an imperialistic manner today?  Cite some examples.  What are your thoughts re: US foreign policy then or today?