It is difficult to overstate the power of visual images, particularly historical primary source photos, to provide a window into the past. Here, the authors outline how educators can utilize historic photos to provide students with a deeper understanding of the past. When students do not see their heritage and culture represented in images, the…

In middle schools and high schools across the country, students analyze primary sources, engaging with and asking critical questions about historical documents. But the students who generated these observations, reflections, and questions were kindergartners--five- and six-year olds, working with Library of Congress staff to help refine strategies…