Major Events in American History: 50 Defining Moments from Pre-Colonial Times to the 21st Century (People and Events in History)

50 important events that shaped American history for kids 8 to 12

Learning about US history can help us understand why things are the way they are today―and how we can make them better. From the founding of the city of Cahokia and the formation of the Haudenosaunee Confederacy to the modern Black Lives Matter movement, this kid-friendly journey takes young learners through nearly 1000 years of American history, one key event at a time.

Go beyond other American history books with:

• 50 key events―Kids will learn about Indigenous peoples, colonial life, the rise of the United States on the world stage, amazing inventions, and more.
• History revealed―This book helps young readers gain more perspective on events with direct quotes from people who actually lived through them.
• Ways to learn more―Each of these defining moments comes with suggestions for other books to read or museums to visit.

Help children discover America's incredible legacy with this top choice in kids' history books.

Megan DuVarney Forbes is a historian and middle school teacher. She was chosen as the 2024 CA Outstanding Middle School Social Studies Teacher of the Year. Megan is a frequent presenter on empowering students in their own identities through social justice, history, and literature. She loves to share ideas with other educators around the world. You can follow her on Instagram @TooCoolForMiddleSchool.