October is not just about fall leaves and Halloween, it’s the perfect time to delve into important events and figures that have shaped our world. Here are 7 days in history to consider as you plan your lessons this month.
October 4 – USSR Launches Sputnik I (1957)
The launch of Sputnik in 1957, stunned the world and launched the Space Race between the U.S. and the Soviet Union. This was a major Cold War event, forever changing the course of space exploration. In the Space and Mid 20th-Century in the U.S. Units, your students can dive into this period, learning about The Space Race and how the launch of Sputnik accelerated the push to reach the stars.
October 9 – Leif Erikson Day
Leif Erikson Day reminds us of the legendary Norse explorer who arrived in North America nearly 500 years before Columbus. Erikson’s expedition is a testament to Viking innovation. Encourage your learners to delve into Viking history with our Vikings Unit, where they’ll uncover stories of seafaring, exploration, and the traditions of these early adventurers.
October 10 – Panama Canal Connects Atlantic and Pacific Oceans (1913)
On October 10, 1913, the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans were connected for the first time with the completion of the Panama Canal, revolutionizing trade and travel. This engineering marvel allowed ships to bypass the lengthy and treacherous trip around South America. Students can explore this monumental project in our Unit on the Panama Canal.
October 14 – Indigenous People’s Day
Each year, Indigenous People’s Day provides an opportunity to honor the history and cultures of Native American peoples across the country. It’s a time to bring new cultural perspectives into your classroom with our Native America Unit. We also offer specific Units by region, including the Plains Indians, Northwest Coast Peoples, and Southwest Peoples.
October 22 – First Parachute Jump Made in Paris (1797)
What goes up, must come down. On October 22, 1797, André-Jacques Garnerin made history by performing the first parachute jump from a hot air balloon, falling over 3,000 feet to the ground. This event exemplifies the force of gravity that pulls everything toward the Earth. It’s the opportunity to share our Gravity Unit, where you class can explore the science behind this force that affects everything from falling objects to planetary motion.
October 28 – National Immigrants Day
America’s strength comes from its history of immigration, and it’s essential to celebrate the diversity of our heritage! On this day in 1886, the Statue of Liberty was dedicated, offering a warm welcome to the many immigrants arriving through Ellis Island. Explore this important part of history with our Units on Ellis Island, Immigration, and the Statue of Liberty. Take this opportunity to have your students delve into their family’s origins and learn where their journey began.
October 31 – Halloween
Don’t let this candy-fueled holiday get away from you. Before or after the celebration, have students read through some of our spookiest Units. Bones, Spiders, and Mummies, oh my! We also have a brand new Bones Infographic for your class to explore. Don’t worry, these resources have no trick and are all treats!
