#2: January 5-11

#2 “This Week in American History” Blog Series

Read the Introduction to the blog series…

As we approach the 250th anniversary of the founding of our nation in 2026, we’re excited to launch a new blog series designed to help children connect with the rich history of the United States. The This Week in American History blog series will explore significant events, people, and milestones from our country’s past, offering engaging ways to make history come alive for your families.

Each week, this blog series will include links to Real Cool History for Kids podcast episodes when applicable! There will also be a digital resource packet of coloring or activity pages for each event available in my shop* each week. Plus, once a month, we’ll feature a bonus post highlighting world history or geography from that month, broadening your child’s perspective on the world.

We invite you to explore, learn, and make history come alive with your children. Each new post in the series will be available right here at angelaodell.com.

Understanding the connections in our history is key to helping children develop a sense of identity and connection to their country. As they learn about historical figures, pivotal moments, and the struggles that shaped the nation, they can better appreciate the freedoms they enjoy today. As Benjamin Franklin wisely said, “Freedom is not a gift bestowed upon us by other men, but a right that belongs to us by the laws of God.” The price of freedom is never free. Each generation is responsible for passing the torch to the next. This is the foundational reason I wrote the America’s Story series as a starting point for your family’s history learning journey.

* Each week’s coloring and activity page bundle will be available to Patreon members as part of their membership perks!

start with Week 1

This Week in History!

January 8, 1815 – The Battle of New Orleans

What happened? During the War of 1812, American forces led by General Andrew Jackson defeated the British at the Battle of New Orleans.
Why is it important? It was the last major battle of the war and showed that America could defend itself. The victory made Andrew Jackson a national hero.
Fun fact: The war had already officially ended with the Treaty of Ghent, but news traveled slowly in those days!
Listen to Episode 14: The Story of the Acadians (the War of 1812)

January 5, 1933 – Construction Begins on the Golden Gate Bridge

What happened? Workers began building the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, California.
Why is it important? The Golden Gate Bridge became one of the most famous bridges in the world and a symbol of American innovation.
Fun fact: The bridge’s color, “International Orange,” was chosen to help it stand out in the fog.

January 9, 1788 – Connecticut Becomes the Fifth State

What happened? Connecticut officially joined the United States by ratifying the Constitution.
Why is it important? Connecticut helped shape America’s government and is nicknamed “The Constitution State.”
Fun fact: Connecticut is also known for inventing the first lollipop-making machine!

January 10, 1776 – Thomas Paine Publishes Common Sense

What happened? Thomas Paine wrote Common Sense, a pamphlet encouraging American colonists to fight for independence from Britain.
Why is it important? The pamphlet helped many people believe in the idea of freedom and independence.
Fun fact: It was written in plain language so that everyone could understand it, even kids at the time!

January 11, 1908 – Grand Canyon Becomes a National Monument

Fun fact: The Grand Canyon is so big, it can fit about 19 Empire State Buildings stacked on top of each other!
What happened? President Theodore Roosevelt declared the Grand Canyon a national monument to protect its beauty.
Listen to Episode 64: The Story of Teddy Roosevelt.
Why is it important? The Grand Canyon is one of America’s most famous natural landmarks and a place many families love to visit.

January 5 – January 11

This Week in American History

Enjoy this printable resources featuring coloring pages and a short history summary for each historical event. Remember, you can get this printable as well as the other upcoming resources in this series and many other bonuses by becoming a member on our Patreon platform.

purchase packet Join Patreon