Exploring Past Leaders & Current Issues
When people commemorate a birthday, they often reflect on the past year: what were highlights? What were things they wish they could have changed? California is getting ready to commemorate its 150th year of statehood. As residents of California, we can reflect on the ancestors and leaders who influenced the earliest days of our state's past. Who were some of these people? What were their struggles and triumphs? Some people have spoken of an "Otherness of the past." If we compare the past to related issues confronting Californians today, would we find the past to be something "other" than the present? Or is there a oneness linking the past and present? This is the question you will explore in the following pages.
To help you explore, question and reflect on the question of "otherness or oneness," wouldn't it be great if you could meet a character from the past who could tell you about what life was like back then? Wouldn't you learn better if you could ask them questions? You can. The characters listed above come to life in a series of presentations given across the state and via videoconferencing.
The History Alive! Chautauqua series is part of the California Council for the Humanities' "Rediscovering California at 150" initiative. Through this program, Californians - from Eureka to San Diego - can see actor / historians portray leaders who made an impact on California's early days. Pacific Bell Education First is making six of the presentations available to a wider audience through a series of interactive videoconferences.
There are three main parts to this learning activity: exploring Web-based resources, watching a Chautauqua presentation, and reflecting on what you've learned. You can do all or part of the activity depending on your learning goals. Click on a name to begin the Web-based activity or read more about the videoconferences.
Biddy Mason John Sutter Camillo Ynitia
Created May 1, 1999 - Last revised: February, 2005
http://www.kn.att.com/wired/ca_150/
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