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This article is the first of three to introduce Jazz music, which was born in the United States over a period of 200 years. Jazz was influenced by African, Latin American, and European music. It is generally accepted that Jazz was first recognized in New Orleans, Louisiana, the southeastern United States. This mostly historical article features many Jazz musicians including Ferdinand “Jelly Roll” Morton, Buddy Bolden, Joe “King” Oliver, and Louis “Satchmo” Armstrong. A list of Web sites is included.

The lesson plan “Virginia: Jamestown and Its People” consists of two parts using Jamestown, a historical site in Virginia, and several of its famous figures as the source for classroom activities. Part I activities are about the site including a brief history of Jamestown and its artifacts as a basis for writing and speaking activities, while the second part focuses on some famous figures who lived there as a basis for listening and writing activities.

This article introduces the history of Native Americans, including accomplishments in building, in social organization, and in art. The article discusses religion and cultural beliefs and the devastating effects that the arrival of Europeans had on Native Americans. The article includes sections on current developments as well, such as the opening of the National Museum of the American Indian and efforts to preserve native cultures and languages. The final section addresses the past practice of forcing children to leave their community to go to boarding schools.