Almost 250 years ago, on July 2nd, 1776, the Second Continental Congress voted for independence. Two days later, they approved the Declaration of Independence, the rationale for independence.
We, therefore, the Representatives of the united States of America, in General Congress, Assembled, appealing to the Supreme Judge of the world for the rectitude of our intentions, do, in the Name, and by Authority of the good People of these Colonies, solemnly publish and declare, That these United Colonies are, and of Right ought to be Free and Independent States; that they are Absolved from all Allegiance to the British Crown, and that all political connection between them and the State of Great Britain, is and ought to be totally dissolved;
Teaching American History’s Spring 2026 webinar series is a five-part event exploring the Declaration of Independence from its creation to its lasting influence on American reform movements. In January, participants step into 1776 to examine Jefferson’s drafts, the Committee of Five, and the debates that shaped the final document. February focuses on slavery, unpacking antebellum interpretations from pro-slavery defenders, anti-slavery arguments from abolitionists, and timeless rhetoric from Abraham Lincoln, all rooted in the Declaration. March highlights the Progressive Era, exploring debates over imperialism, eugenics, and the meaning of liberty in early 20th-century America. April traces the Declaration’s inspiration in the women’s rights movement, featuring figures like Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Susan B. Anthony. May concludes with the civil rights movement, examining how leaders from Frederick Douglass to MLK drew on the Declaration’s ideals to demand equality. Designed for social studies educators, the series illuminates history’s debates and the document’s enduring relevance.
Our live teacher webinars provide content-rich and interactive professional development through conversation. We’ll share a reading packet with registrants several weeks before the event and provide space for early discussion between participants. The documents, pre-seminar conversation, and questions asked in the discussion board are vital to shaping the direction of the panelists’ conversation. Audience members ask questions during the event, comment in the lively chat, and share resources and ideas.
Our online seminars meet monthly on select Saturday mornings from 10.45am–12pm ET. Excerpts for discussion, a pre-seminar discussion board, a link to the seminar recording, and relevant primary sources will be made available to registrants. Those who remain digitally present for the duration of the conversation will receive an attendance letter from Teaching American History for 1.25 hours of professional development.
So—grab a cup of coffee and join us online! Click the link below to go to the series homepage to learn more, register for our Spring 2026 webinars, and rewatch our Fall 2025 series, The Many Faces of Thomas Jefferson!
