Recommended: Booklist, School Library Journal

This comprehensive series is designed to help young learners understand and appreciate the images that have become the symbols that represent the greatness of the world’s mightiest nation. These images, recognized around the world, symbolize the American people, the American government, the ideals of American democracy and the determination of the people to foster the American spirit.

Freedom & Democracy (NEW)
Although Freedom & Democracy are things you can't see, they are a symbol of our nation.  As Americans we think of ourselves as being free and democratic, but these very basic rights come with fundamental and serious responsibilities.  Historically not everyone enjoyed the same levels of freedom in America.  Look at the days of slavery, women without the right to vote and Americans with disabilities that lacked equal access   These hard fought freedoms seem sensible today, but it wasn't always so. It's important to think of Freedom and Democracy as living breathing symbols of America.  Symbols which have in the past and will continue into the future to assure they incorporate the needs of all the people.

The American Dream (NEW)
You can't see it, nor touch it, but it's every bit as real as the Statue of Liberty. The American Dream, a universally known Symbol of America, is unique in that what it symbolizes is individual to each person. From the innovators and entrepreneurs of today, to Christopher Columbus and the Founding Fathers before them, they were all dreamers. So, don't let anyone tell you the American Dream is dead; it's alive and well, right where it's always been, in the hearts and minds of dreamers.  So, what's your American Dream?

Patriotism (NEW)
Young citizens learn that patriotism is hard to define, but easy to display.   They'll understand that the earliest patriots were our founding fathers.  And from their guidance our love of country continues to grow.  Our patriotic pride begins at home but quietly spreads into our community and over state borders, filling the entire country.  But American patriotism doesn't stop there. It flows across the continent and around the globe.  From waving it to wearing it, the American people symbolize patriotism, and America is considered the most patriotic country in the world.

Memorials
A memorial is a wonderful symbol created to honor and share the memory of those we have loved and lost.  Memorials can be very large such as the Jefferson Memorial in our nations capitol or they can be as simple as a marker in a field or picture on a wall.  In this program for young viewers we'll take a look at some of the many different kinds of memorials that have been created to celebrate important people, historic events, and the American way of life.

Monuments
Monuments can be very different!   They exist to remind us of a special person... a historic time... a significant achievement… a revered place or even an idea.  In this age appropriate program we take a look at some very important monuments that honor the beauty of our country, the spirit of our people and the strength of our democratic ideals.

The Constitution of the United States    
Recognized around the world as a symbol of freedom and democracy, the US Constitution sets the standards by which we elect our leaders and the guidelines for writing the laws by which we all live. But most importantly, it outlines the freedoms we are all guaranteed as citizens of the United States of America. Exactly how this historic document grants power to the people and how it works to insure freedom in our everyday lives is a very interesting story indeed.  It remains the responsibility of “WE THE PEOPLE”, to continue to protect the meaning and intent of this historic and great symbol of America.

The Declaration of Independence
Young viewers will enjoy learning the intent, meaning, and importance of our country’s founding document, the Declaration of Independence. This early symbol of America is the cornerstone for our ideals of life, liberty and the personal pursuit of happiness. Combined with the role of a responsible government to its citizens, the Declaration Of Independence is the very foundation of our democratic nation.

The US Capitol Building  
Youngsters will be fascinated by the unique history and importance of one of America’s greatest symbols of democracy, the United States Capitol Building in Washington DC.  From its early design to its imposing position on Capitol Hill, viewers will understand that this remarkable structure symbolizes the will & strength of the American people and the principles of modern democracy to citizens the world over.

Uncle Sam
Students will be amazed to learn how “Uncle Sam” our national symbol derived from a real man named Samuel Wilson and how this unique image helped recruit soldiers during both World War I and II. By understanding symbols like “Uncle Sam”, youngsters will appreciate their value and gain insight into their purpose and powerful message.

The White House
During this program viewers will discover this famous home’s most important features, meet some of the first families who have occupied 1600 Pennsylvania Ave., view the oval office, treaty room and familiar east room. They will also observe White House ceremonies honoring some of the best achievers America has to offer.

The American Bald Eagle
The bald eagle was chosen June 20, 1782 as the emblem of the United States of America, because of its long life, great strength and majestic looks. On the Great Seal of the United States and in many places, which are exponents of our nation’s authority, we see this same emblem.

Images of Liberty (Statue of Liberty, Liberty Bell)  
A chime that changed the world occurred on July 8, 1776, when the Liberty Bell rang out from the tower of Independence Hall summoning citizens to hear the first public reading of the Declaration of Independence. One hundred and ten years later the French gave to the U.S. the Statue Of Liberty, which has become the universal symbol of political freedom and democracy.

The U. S. Flag
The story of the American flag is told, from Revolutionary War days to the present. Youngsters learn what the flag symbolizes, what the various parts mean, and how to maintain and properly display the American flag. A special section explains how the flag prompted Francis Scott Key to write “The Star Spangled Banner” and tells when and under what circumstances the “Pledge of Allegiance” was written. Fun facts are also included.