#32: August 3-9

#32 “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!

August 4, 1790 – The U.S. Coast Guard Was Founded Long ago, ships carrying goods sailed along the coasts of America. But some people tried to sneak their cargo in without paying taxes. On August 4, 1790, the U.S. government started a small fleet of ships called the Revenue Cutter Service to stop this. Over time, this group became the United States Coast Guard! Today, the Coast Guard rescues people, patrols the seas, and helps keep our waters safe.
Fun Fact: The Coast Guard’s official motto is “Semper Paratus,” which means “Always Ready!” Light houses also played an important role in keeping our shores and waters safe! Listen to Episode 144: Ida Lewis the Lighthouse Keeper

August 5, 1914 – First Electric Traffic Light Installed in the U.S.
Before traffic lights, city streets were pretty wild—cars, horses, and people all trying to cross at the same time! On August 5, 1914, the very first electric traffic light in the United States was installed in Cleveland, Ohio. It had only red and green lights and helped police direct traffic more safely. Drivers were amazed at this new invention that helped everyone know when to stop and go!
Fun Fact: The original traffic light didn’t have a yellow light—just red and green!

August 6, 1926 – Gertrude Ederle Swam Across the English Channel
On August 6, 1926, a 20-year-old woman named Gertrude Ederle made a big splash in history! She became the first woman to swim across the English Channel, the body of water between England and France. It took her over 14 hours to swim through cold, choppy water—and she beat the men’s record by almost two hours! People around the world cheered for her bravery and strength.
Fun Fact: Gertrude Ederle wore homemade goggles—she sealed them with wax to keep water out!

August 7, 1782 – George Washington Created the “Badge of Military Merit”
During the American Revolutionary War, General George Washington wanted to honor soldiers who showed courage and loyalty. So, on August 7, 1782, he created the Badge of Military Merit. It was shaped like a purple heart and was one of the first military awards for ordinary soldiers. Many years later, this badge became today’s famous Purple Heart, given to those wounded or killed while serving in the U.S. military.
Fun Fact: The original badge was made of purple cloth and hand-stitched by Washington’s aides! Listen to Episode 106: Spies of the Revolutionary War

August 3-9

This Week in American History

Enjoy this printable resources featuring activity and 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.

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