Early American History: Lectures 1-30: Native Americans Through the Forty-Niners

This is a very unusual course in American History. It is taught by nationally recognized Linwood Thompson. He is both a teacher of history and of drama at his school. And that's why this course is special. Linwood Thompson's history program at Bellflower High School in the suburbs of Los Angeles has attracted international attention for its creativity and innovation. "History is a blast!" and "He makes history come alive!" are just some of the comments collected from his students. Every lesson in the course is "taught" by a particular character. Linwood Thompson has an arsenal of costumes, as well as a firm grasp on the personae of great historical figures. He dresses, talks, and acts like them. He actually becomes them! "Linwood Thompson" appears only briefly at the start of this course. He then "becomes" Bjarni Herjolfsson, Viking explorer and incomparable expert on who really discovered America. From that moment, students will know they are in for a fascinating trip as Bjarni gives way to Christopher Columbus, Revolutionary War foot soldiers, a French trapper, and a host of other characters who provide a first-person perspective on early American history. He's such an entertaining presenter that you learn without knowing it. Every lecture is delivered in costume and in character. Just sit back, relax, and learn. Linwood Thompson has been recognized as one of the "Hometown Heroes" of Los Angeles by the Los Angeles Times, and he has been honored for Outstanding Achievement in Education by the Senate of the State of California. This course comes with a workbook that is designed as a valuable supplement to the course and textbooks you are already using. This lecture series was originally created for a high school audience; however, it's a useful tool for anyone interested in early American history.