The Homeschool History Resources below will help you design your own homeschool history curriculum when studying the Age of Revolutions. (1708-1835)
Therefore, on this page, I list the teacher resource books, general overview books and books which could be used as a homeschool history spinebook for this time period as well as history curriculum and hands on project materials.
Then I have created my TOP TEN History Living Books where I list favourite read alouds, favourite living books and biographies to make the units inside this time period come alive! Enjoy your units!
- Artists in the period - Rococo, Reynolds, Gainsborough, Romney, William Blake, John Constable, Turner, Goya
- Musicians in this period - Late Baroque period - Bach, Handel, Vivaldi, Isaac Watts, Haydn, Mozart, Beethoven
- Writers - Daniel Defoe, Johathan Swift, William Blake, William Wordsworth, Robert Burns
- War of Spanish Succession 1713
- War of Austrian Succession 1740-1748
- Pioneer Living, Indians and French and Indian Wars (Cotton Mather, Wilderness,Daniel Boone)
- War between England and France
- Colonial Life
- Great Awakening (Wesley, George Whitefield, Jonathan Edwards, John Newton)
- Scientific Accomplishments
- Seven Years War (1756-1763)
- Exploration - Australia,
- American Revolution and the big characters (George Washington, Abigail Adams, John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, Patrick Henry, Thomas Jefferson
- Industrial Revolution
- French Revolution
Everyone has their favourite homeschooling history books. The selection below are books which we have enjoyed using as a family and others which have been highly recommended.
||The Gift of Music: Great Composers & Their Influence
By Jane Stuart Smith & Betty Carlson / Crossway Books & Bibles
"The arts are not extraneous . . . but a vital and essential part of our existence," write the authors. This stimulating overview integrates the biographies, beliefs, and music of 45 composers from Schutz to Shostakovich; and suggests recommended reading and listening to expand your students' understanding and appreciation of great music. Joyously written from a Christian viewpoint. 317 pages, softcover from Crossway.
||A Child's History of Art: Painting Kit
By Calvert School
Filled with all the details of art that make learning interesting, this unique subject will teach your kids about the history of painting through black-and-white reproductions. The text is the core of the course, and includes glossy black-and-white photographs with simple, conversational text on the Great Masters as well as lesser-known painters. The accompanying Art Card Portfolio features full-color photographs of many famous paintings. The lesson manual includes instructions for the teacher with objectives, an introduction, application questions, art card connections, and enrichment activities; an answer key is also included. 7th Grade.
This Kit Includes: A Child's History of Art: Architecture textbook, 242 glossy pages, softcover. Lesson Manual, 125 pages, spiralbound, softcover. Art Card Portfolio, spiralbound
The Sweet Land of Liberty can also be used as a spine for this time period.
||Sweet Land of Liberty
By Charles C. Coffin / Maranatha Publications, Inc
"...Are we doing a good enough job of teaching our children what America is and what she represents in the long history of the world?...We've got to do a better job of getting across the idea that America is freedom-freedom of speech, freedom of religion, freedom of enterprise. And freedom is special and rare. It's fragile and it needs protection...So we've got to teach history based not on what's in fashion, but on what's important, on why the pilgrims came here...If we forget what we did we won't know who we are-I am warning of an eradication of the American memory that could result ultimately in an erosion of The American Spirit." President Ronald Regan Farewell Address Surely there is a meaning of history, else what are we living for? In this volume you will see how Tyranny and Wrong have fought against Liberty and Justice but how Tyranny and Wrong have gone down before it. Men die, generations come and go but ideas live on. Through all the narratives of wars, massacres, and bloodshed, you will see Right, Justice, and Liberty ever advancing. Softcover, 458 pages.
By Charles C. Coffin / Maranatha Publications, Inc
"I accept the Bible because it contains, immeasurably beyond all other books, moral precepts which are the rules of all right conduct; because it is the foundation of all just government; because it tells the truth about men; because its spiritual teachings satisfy the longings of my heart, giving me joy, peace, comfort, rest, and hope of a better and larger life beyond the present." Charles Carleton Coffin, Author "In this modern era of historical dishonesty, the work of Charles Coffin stands strong. His fear of God, his love for his country and his respect for historical truth all combine to give us a faithful, passionate and accurate story of our nation's flight for liberty. I pray that everyone, young and old alike, will read and remember The Boys of 76". Gregg Harris author of The Christian Home School, and director of Noble Institute
||The Light and the Glory for Children
By Peter Marshall / Baker
Has America seen the last of its courageous Christian heroes? Put your kids on horseback with evangelist George Whitefield, in Valley Forge with president George Washington, and in many other historical places where believers stood for righteousness---and they'll be inspired to continue God's work in America! Includes study activities. For ages 9 to 12. 174 pages, softcover from Revell.
||The Light and the Glory, 1492-1793
By Peter Marshall & David Manuel / Baker
Did Columbus believe that God called him west to undiscovered lands? Does American democracy owe its inception to the handful of Pilgrims that settled at Plymouth? If, indeed, there was a specific, divine call upon this nation, is it still valid today?
The Light and the Glory answers these questions and many more for history buffs. As readers look at their nation's history from God's point of view, they will begin to have an idea of how much we owe to a very few--and how much is still at stake. Now revised and expanded for the first time in more than thirty years, The Light and the Glory is poised to show new readers just how special their country is.
||From Sea to Shining Sea, repackaged edition: 1787-1837
By Peter Marshall & David Manuel / Revell
The second book in Peter Marshall's and David Manuel's God's Plan for America trilogy, this revised account of the years 1787 to 1837 will rivet you to the page. After the Revolutionary War, America was growing. Was God intervening on behalf of the struggling nation, or the natural outpouring of technological and social changes? The authors make the case that America's future was threatened by greed, pride, and self-righteousness, but in the midst of turmoil, God raised up leaders to uniquely shape our country and character. This is the story of a country moving forward--but always with an eye on the Christian heritage of the past. 475 indexed pages, softcover.
||Streams of Civilization, Volume 2
By Garry Moes / Christian Liberty Press
This book covers the events of world history with an emphasis on European and American culture since the Reformation. Each chapter traces a particular theme within a particular time period. The principal themes include the history of Christianity and philosophy with their results in culture, politics, economics, society, science, and technology. A time line at the beginning of each chapter will help the reader to see the chronological relationships between the events discussed in the text. Throughout the text, particular points of interest, focusing on specific individuals and events, provide further information. Maps and photographs, as well as artwork of a particular period, add to the overall impact of the book. Thought-provoking questions given at the end of each chapter will encourage students to think through the Christian implications of the material and its relevance for today's world. In addition, a list of important words and concepts at the end of the chapter will aid the student in focusing on the most significant ideas discussed in the chapter. Suggested projects can also enliven the topics being covered as a particular activity is carried out by an individual or a class. A reading list is provided to suggest resources for further study; an extensive index will also enable the student to use the book for reference in years to come.
||The Kingfisher History Encyclopedia, Revised Edition
The past never felt so present! Exploring world history throughout 10 chronological periods from 40,000 B.C. to 2003, this newly updated resource overflows with fascinating facts, in-depth articles, and at-a-glance summaries that bring the story of civilization to life. Brimming with lavish full-color artwork and punctuated with lists of important events---plus online links for further information---it offers a can't-put-down gallery of learning. (Includes some discussion of evolution.) 491 pages, hardcover.
This gives a horizontal view across the life of George Washington explaining what is happening in other countries at the same time.
||Providential Battles II: Epic Conflicts that Changed the World
By William Potter / The Vision Forum, Inc
Building on the foundations laid in Providential Battles I, Bill Potter identifies eight more battles of monumental importance and details how God used men, nations, and events to accomplish His plans. From the Thirty Years War, to the events surrounding the Russian army and forces of the Empire of the Rising Sun colliding in Tsushima in 1905 - each unfolding saga will leave you grateful for God's orchestrating hand in the affairs of men. 4 CDs. Over 257 minutes.
- Lutzen-1632 King Gustavus Adolphus vs. Count Wallenstein (The Thirty Years War) Sweden and German Protestants engaged against the Imperial Forces of the Holy Roman Empire.
- Naseby-1645 Oliver Cromwell vs. King Charles I (English Civil War) The Parliamentarians and Puritans under Cromwell against King Charles's Royalists forces in England.
- New York City-1776 George Washington vs. Lord William Howe (American War for Independence) The newly raised American troops lay siege against the world's power-the English Redcoats.
- Gaines Mill-1862 Robert E. Lee vs. George B. McClellan (War for Southern Independence) The Confederate States of America in a unique engagement with the "United States of America."
- Sedan-1870 Helmut Von Moltke vs. Louis Napolean III (Franco-Prussian War) Prussian forces battle with royal troops of France.
- Tsushima-1905 Zinovi P. Rozhestvensky vs. Togo Heihachiro (Russo-Japanese War) The Russian army and forces of the Empire of the Rising Sun collide in a little-known important campaign.
- Normandy-1944 Dwight D. Eisenhower vs. Erwin Romell (World War II) Allied forces of England and the United States of America engage the Germans in an epic battle.
- Six Day War-1969 Israel vs. The Arab Nations The Israeli nation against the the united power of Egypt, Iraq, Syria, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Algeria.
By Genevieve Foster / Beautiful Feet Books
George Washington's World sets American history into a world-wide context through short, beautifully written stories that explain what was going on during the main portions of Washington's life. When George was a young man, Benjamin Franklin was the most well-known American, Louis XV was on the throne of France, and George II was king of England. James Cook was sent by the Royal Society of London to Tahiti where their team of astronomers might observe a total eclipse of the sun and thereby accurately measure the distance between the earth and the sun. Learn about these and other historical events and people in this Newbery Honor Book of 1940. Prolifically illustrated with intriguing line drawings and detailed timelines. 355 pages, softcover. 4th-8th Grade.
||H.A. Guerber: The Story of the Thirteen Colonies
By Christine Miller / Nothing New Press
Originally written in the early 19th century, H.A. Guerber's historical readers will give young children an exciting, narrative look at the human past. Writing from the conviction of biblical accuracy in all of history, events and cultures are dated according to the bible and an emphasis on God's sovereignty through Western history runs throughout. Children will appreciate the story like style as they hear of the great men and civilizations in chapters that are easy to digest, though they still retain a large vocabulary. Historical illustrations are used throughout.
Thirteen Colonies describes what life was like before and during the Revolutionary War, from the Native Americans until Washington's Farwell. Please be aware that Native Americans are described as "simple", and other 19th century attitudes are present despite changing the term "savages" to "Indians". 240 pages, softcover.
||The Story Of The World, Vol. 3: Early Modern Times
By Susan Wise Bauer / Peace Hill Press
Who was the Sun King? Why was Peter the Great so great? What was the Trail of Tears? From 1600 to 1850, the modern nations of the world were developing---and your students are there with this engaging read-aloud story of civilization. Learn about explorations, revolutions, discoveries, and inventions on every continent and across the seven seas! Ages 6 and up. Approx. 400 pages, softcover from Peace Hill.
||Story of the World, Vol. 3: Early Modern Times Activity Book
By Peace Hill Press
This thick activity book accompanies the Story of the World's Early Modern Times textbook with fun ideas for each chapter. Recommended readings in Usborne and Kingfisher encyclopedias are provided before moving onto review questions (with answers given beneath in italics) and a narration exercise. Additional reading suggestions, map work, a coloring page, projects, crafts, and other activities are provided for a number of excellent research and hands-on projects. Create your own Scottish tartan, celebrate Guy Fawkes day, cook colonial pottage, make your own galleon, and make history come alive in many other fun ways! 164 pages, softcover. Maps, review cards, coloring pages, paperdolls, games and other supplemental materials provided. Pages are reproducible for in-home use only (not co-ops).
||The Story of the World Volume 3: Early Modern Times Audio CD Set
By Susan Wise Bauer, narrated by Jim Weiss / Peace Hill Press
The audiobook of The Story of the World's Early Modern Times: Volume 3, this 9-CD set contains over 11 hours of audio. Completely unabridged, students and parents will enjoy listening to the historical narration of what happened from Elizabeth I to the Forty-Niners. Read by Jim Weiss, this audiobook is an excellent addition to any history program. 11 hours on 9 CDs.
By Teacher Created Resources
Thematic Units make planning unit studies easy! Integrating cross-curricular topics with different works of literature, students will learn through reading, writing, listening, illustrating, and many hands-on activities. With units involving language arts, math, social studies, science, arts and crafts, movement and life skills, students will study both in-depth and with enthusiasm! Based upon well-received children's books, each section includes a summary, sample weekly plan, and overview of activities with ideas for setting the stage and enjoying the book. Cross-curricular step-by-step activities, reproducible blackline masters, worksheets, activities, and reinforcement exercises follow. Perfect for an enjoyable and simple-to-use thematic study for both student and teacher! 80 reproducible pages, softcover. Answers included. Grades 5-8.
This Thematic Unit focuses on the Revolutionary War and uses the books Johnny Tremain by Esther Forbes The fighting ground by Avi
By Esther Hoskins Forbes / Graphia
Johnny Tremain is a talented apprentice at a silversmith in colonial Boston when a horrible accident leaves his hand disfigured and his future forever changed. Since he is no longer able to be a silversmith, his life takes him on a new path that will bring him into touch with Paul Revere, John Hancock and other Boston patriots and help him to discover a new dream that will allow him to be a part of American history.
More to be found at
Tapestry of Grace History Curriculum
Tapestry of Grace : Year Two
Unit Four of the Year Two Tapestry of Grace Curriculum covers: French and Indian Wars, Declaring Independence, The Revolutionary War, The new nation under the Articles of Confederation, The Constitution, Presidents Washington and Adams, The French Revolution.
A very thorough curriculum
Read some Tapestry of Grace Reviews.
||TruthQuest History: Age of Revolution I (1600-1800)
By Michelle Miller / Truth Quest History
History may seem murky, but only because we wrongly focus on the long corridor of human actions. History is really a door to God Himself!
God created mankind and his times. He is the initiator; we are the responders. So, it is first God's truths and then our responding beliefs which shape all of history: government, philosophy, art, architecture, literature, scientific thinking, economics, law, and the value placed on human life itself.
TruthQuest History opens the door to it all by bringing together worldview wisdom, literature recommendations, and chronology... all in a fascinating storyline of spiritual context!
How? Picture your family reclining in a comfy boat. The current of TruthQuest History carries you... because each topic has its own powerful commentary and reading list. Your children do not just visit times... they understand them! They do not just read... they see cause-and-effect truth!
Whatever your style, TruthQuest History can benefit you. It follows key Charlotte Mason and Classical resources, and assists unit-study and unschooling familes exploring an era. TruthQuest History even helps you teach your own theology and choose your own resources! Adaptable for all grades.
Spiral bound, appendices: list of cited resources, Think/Write Exercises teacher's notes.
The years of the Renaissance and Reformation were years of growth and change for both the world and the church. The Mystery of History, Volume III presents the years 1461-1707 through Christ-centered lens, exploring the backdrop to and significance of major cultural and historical events, alongside events in the history of Christianity. Moving through time chronologically, achievements in art, music, literature, science and philosophy are studied using a Classical approach, with an emphasis on reading, writing, research and hands-on activities. 464 pages, full color illustrations. The Mystery of History Volume 3 Companion Guide Guide includes the activities, quizzes, tests, reproducible maps, teacher information, book lists, and everything else that is not the lesson.
||The Renaissance, Reformation, and Growth of Nations (1455-1707) Companion Guide: The Mystery of History 3
By Linda Lacour Hobar / Bright Ideas Press
Waiting for the Mystery of History Vol. III Reader? We don't want you to have to wait to start your school-year! Download the first Four Mystery of History Reader chapters for free!
This companion guide accompanies The Mystery of History Volume 3 Student Reader, and contains the material to accompany the lessons. Pre-tests, hands-on/research activities, timeline instructions, mapping work, memory cards, quizzes, worksheets, tests, and an extensive booklist for additional literature about the time period are all included.
Veritas Press History and Bible Cards - We use these cards with every time period we study.
Veritas Press History and Bible Cards
Declaration of Independence
Writings by Benjamin Franklin, George Washington
Gulliver's Travels - Jonathan Swift (children's version)
Poetry by Wordsworth and William Blake
||Time Travelers: American Revolution CDROM
By Homeschool In The Woods
The American Revolution is filled with well-known stories and heroes. Experience it to the fullest with Homeschool in the Woods' "The American Revolution" CD-ROM. Make a haversack or a booklet with this fun, hands-on approach to learning. 25 Lessons may be spread over 5-10 weeks, and include creative writing, colonial recipes, factfile cards, a file folder game, science experiments, notebook timeline, notebooking activities and more. Text and project overview pages keep lessons on track, while masters, photos and drawings make for easy lesson planning. Teacher helps, keys, resource list and "guide at a glance" included. Grades 3-8; 1 CD-ROM.
||Revolutionary War Activities Book
By Homeschool / Konos Inc
Planning to teach about the Revolutionary War? Give your elementary kids a biblical view of the history of America using this comprehensive activity book which includes charts, reading lists, time lines, art projects, and field trips that will reinforce lessons for lifetime learning. Part of the KONOS learning system this has been a proven success for homeschoolers. Visual, sequential, specific, and very hands-on. Can be used for varying grades at one time.
||History Through the Ages CD-Rom Set Creation to Present
By Homeschool In The Woods
Timelines are a wonderful way to see all history at a glance! They help visualize the procession of time and how one event spurts on another. They also help you see history by the slice - what was happening at various places in the world at the same time. Timelines help the most visual of learner grasp the abstract idea of "time" in a hands-on way.
Your kinesthetic learner will benefit from the cutting and coloring of figures. They are wonderful for the auditory learner as each figure has a descriptive text to remember key points of each person or event. Best of all, they inspire a love of learning about the people and events that made a mark in the world, reinforcing that knowledge by taking part in putting the "puzzle" of history together.