Birthdays of Freedom facts for kids
Birthdays of Freedom is a special history book for young readers, written and illustrated by Genevieve Foster. It was first published in two parts: Book One came out in 1952, and Book Two followed in 1957. Book One was even recognized with a Newbery Honor in 1953, which is a big award for children's literature!
This book helps kids understand how different events and people throughout history led up to the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776. That's the important day America celebrates as Independence Day on July 4th.
Contents
What is Birthdays of Freedom About?
This book explores the journey of human freedom from ancient times all the way to the birth of the United States. It shows how many different discoveries, inventions, and brave people helped shape the world we live in today.
Book One: From Ancient Times to Rome
The first part of Birthdays of Freedom covers a huge period of history. It starts with early civilizations like ancient Egypt. Then, it moves through important times and places, ending with the fall of the Roman Empire. This book helps you see how ideas and progress from the ancient world became part of America's heritage.
Book Two: From Rome to American Independence
The second part picks up where Book One leaves off. It continues the story from the end of the Roman Empire. This volume guides readers through the Middle Ages, the Renaissance, and other major historical periods. It highlights the events and people that eventually led to the American Revolution and the signing of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776.
Who is Genevieve Foster?
Genevieve Foster was a talented author and illustrator. She was known for her unique way of writing history, which she called "horizontal history." Instead of just listing events one after another, she would show what was happening all over the world at the same time.
Understanding Horizontal History
Imagine a timeline that stretches across the globe. Genevieve Foster would pick a historical figure, like a famous inventor or a king. Then, she would show you what other important things were happening in different parts of the world during that person's lifetime. This helps you understand how everything connects and how different cultures influenced each other. For Birthdays of Freedom, she used this method to connect ancient events to the ideas of freedom that led to America's founding.
