Disney has a lot of history happening in their parks. We are integrating Disney's History Curriculum into our homeschool. When it comes to the rich history of America Disney World offers a treasure trove of information. From Disney's Frontierland to Disney's Main Street USA, there are stories and characters from the past that we can learn and explore. Disney World is a great way to learn about American history in a fun and engaging way. Disney World offers a great opportunity to learn about American history in a way that is both entertaining and educational. It's a unique way to bring history alive in a way that is both memorable and meaningful, so let's begin.
Hollywood Studios History
The Chinese Theater located at Hollywood Studios is an architectural icon that holds great historical significance. It represents the golden era of Hollywood and has hosted several classic movies. Being a popular tourist attraction, it has welcomed many celebrities, including Elvis Presley, Charlie Chaplin, and Marilyn Monroe.
The handprints of these iconic celebrities on the theater's premises are now a vital part of Hollywood's history. The building also has a museum that houses valuable memorabilia from classic films. While Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway ride now occupies the building, the interior still maintains the original architecture.
DQ
What other famous buildings in America can you think of? Make a list and a map of where the most important ones in the U.S. can be found.
The 1950s gave birth to the baby boomers, the Cold War, and television. If visiting Walt Disney World, check out the 50’s Prime Time Cafe with television at every table and mom’s home-cookin’. If you’re studying from home, read up on the news of the 1950s and drag a tv tray into the living room so you can have a meal in front of the tv!
DQ
How has life changed since 1950? How has it stayed the same?
Toy Story Land
As you enter the gates of Disney World's Toy Story Land, you are transported into a magical world where toys come to life. The land offers a fascinating and immersive experience for visitors, exploring the rich history and culture of toys. It's a place where you can witness the ever-changing landscape of play, from the classic American toy box to the latest technological advancements.
Toy Story Land is not just a fun-filled destination for kids, but also a treasure trove of knowledge for adults who are curious about the impact toys have had on society. Here, you can learn about the emotional connections people develop with their toys, and how they've played a crucial role in shaping our culture.
If you're keen on American history, Toy Story Land is the perfect starting point to explore the country's toy-making legacy. You can discover the educational benefits that toys offer and how they've evolved over time to cater to different age groups and interests. Whether you're young or old, Toy Story Land is an excellent place to visit and immerse yourself in a world of toys.
In 1959, Ruth Handler invented Barbie, a fashion doll with a curvy figure and a variety of outfits and accessories that quickly became a cultural icon. The doll was designed to inspire young girls to envision their future selves as successful and independent women, and to encourage them to explore different career paths and interests. With her signature blonde hair, blue eyes, and glamorous wardrobe, Barbie has become a symbol of empowerment and aspiration for generations of young girls around the world.
Since its introduction in 1952, Mr. Potato Head has been a popular toy that has helped numerous children develop their fine motor skills. With its revolutionary design, children can easily customize their potato with various parts such as eyes, ears, noses, and mouths, which requires them to use their hands and fingers with precision. Similarly, the Slinky, which was first introduced in 1945, has become an iconic toy that has entertained children for generations. The Slinky's simple yet intriguing design allows children to learn about physics and gravity as they watch it walk down stairs or slink down an incline.
DQ
Think about the purpose of Toys and how they help children into adulthood. What do toys do today? If you had to invent a new toy what would it be?
Baseball is a sport with a rich history that holds significant importance in the United States. Its origin, development, and influence on American culture make it an interesting topic to explore in the context of U.S. history. If you're planning to visit Magic Kingdom, be sure to stop by Casey's Corner, a restaurant that celebrates America's favorite pastime. Here, you can find a treasure trove of baseball memorabilia, savor delicious hot dogs, and get a comprehensive overview of the sport's history and evolution. Casey's Corner is named after Casey Jones, a legendary baseball player who left an indelible mark on the game. You can learn more about Casey's life and achievements, as well as the fascinating history of baseball in the United States, in the film, Disney's American Legends.
Angels in the Outfield
The Rookie
The Sandlot
Chicken Little
As you explore Walt Disney World, don't miss the opportunity to visit Tom Sawyer Island, an exciting attraction inspired by the classic tale by Mark Twain. Step into the world of Tom Sawyer and Huck Finn, two unforgettable characters who embark on exciting adventures in this unforgettable story. If you haven't read the book yet, you're in for a treat as the edition featured here includes both characters and is definitely worth reading. You can also catch these two in the Disney movie "Tom and Huck" or watch Huckleberry Finn's wild escapades in "The Adventures of Huck Finn" starring Elijah Wood.
Reading and watching these American Classics will give you two credits for each activity!
The Walt Disney World Railroad is another important ride that involves some US History. Taking guests through scenes of the Wild West, Indian Reservations, the Gold Rush town near Big Thunder Mountain, and even the Circus show all important elements of the U.S. History we know and love today.
The Liberty Bell is an important part of US History, even if this isn’t a real one.
Read all about the history of the Liberty Bell.
Watch National Treasure get inspired to learn more about the important parts of U.S. History.
The Hall of Presidents currently honors all our presidents sharing the most important lesson we’ve learned from each.
Muppets’ Great Moments in History, but only the American Parts was an amazing Muppets show that unfortunately is now canceled. Thankfully you can still learn the most important history on YouTube.
In the bygone era, riverboats were a prevalent means of conveyance and entertainment. These vessels were equipped with steam engines and paddle wheels, which allowed them to navigate even the shallowest waters. One of the most fascinating types of riverboats were steamboats, which revolutionized inland transportation by making it faster and more reliable. Discover more about the history and workings of steamboats.
The American Adventure showcases several important people and events in U.S. History, all of which can include loads of books and movies! Visitors can explore the nation's history through interactive exhibits, hands-on activities, and live performances. They can also discover the stories behind famous American landmarks and monuments. The American Adventure is a perfect place to learn about the United States and its past.
The American Adventure at EPCOT is one of Disney World's most ambitious attractions. It is a stirring and patriotic experience that manages to compress 350 years of American history into just half an hour. The show features audio-animatronics and hydraulic staging, which are technological marvels.
The American Adventure pavilion, which is inspired by Independence Hall and Monticello, is situated between Japan and Italy. The colonial-style building is easily recognizable with each brick seemingly screaming "American history housed here!" The colorful banner with the attraction's name is also a giveaway.
Imagineering has gone to great lengths to ensure that The American Adventure is chock full of historically accurate details, which keen eyes will enjoy catching. Guests are sure to thoroughly enjoy this rousing retelling of our nation's past.
Walt Disney Presents "Ben & Me" (1953)
Flip open some pages- and read this book.
Walt Disney Presents "Johnny Tremain"
Walt Disney Presents "The American Presidents Civil War and Reconstruction"
In Disney World's POP Century resort, you can get a taste of American history in a fun and engaging way. The resort's design was inspired by American pop culture from the 20th century and features giant replicas of iconic items such as classic cars, yo-yos, and popcorn boxes. Guests can also explore interactive exhibits that showcase the history of American inventions. The resort also features a huge food court with a variety of American classics, such as hamburgers and hotdogs. At night, guests can watch fireworks show that celebrates American history and culture. Let's take a Pop Century stroll through time....
1950’s Watch Lady and The Tramp, Transistor Radios, Jukebox, Bowling, Rock n Roll.
1960’s Watch The Jungle Book, Yo-To’s, Play with Play-Doh
1970’s Big Wheel, Mickey Mouse Telephone, Foosball Tables, Twister, 8 Track Tapes,
1980’s Watch Roger Rabbit, Rubik’s Cube, Sport Walkman, Pac-Man, Breakdancing, Hip Hop,
1990’s Computers, Cell Phones, Rollerblades, Compact Discs
U.S. History EXTRA Credit Assignments
Take a picture of yourself at the restaurant.
Submit a paragraph summarizing what you learned.
Baseball
Watch each of the movies and write a paper on the history of baseball in the United States portrayed in each film.
Write 5 interesting facts you learned from this archived document.
Submit a paragraph summarizing what you learned.
National Geographic’s American Indians History and Culture
What was most impactful to you about this lesson? Write a letter to our past discussing American Natives, their culture, and their place in our past.
What does slavery have to do with the liberty bell?
Submit completed activities. Get credit for every completed activity.
WHAT THE MUPPETS CAN TEACH US ABOUT GENERATIONAL INFLUENCES AND ORIGINS
Write 5 interesting facts you learned from this article.
How Jim Henson Changed Early Education and Brought Puppets Back
What was most impactful to you about this article? Do you approve of the influence Jim Henson had on early education?
Write a historically appropriate letter home after a steamboat ride using the vocabulary words.
Include trip details and how long it took to travel from New York City to Albany on Mr. Fulton's steamboat?
Submit completed activities.
The American Adventure
Submit a photo of you in front of this iconic building!
School House Rock
Watch the movies and Disney Plus and let's discuss what you learned in Class Discussions!
Read this book for two book credits!
Color Coded Extra Credit
All orange coded Extra Credit simply requires a photo of you and that item!