Great Americans We All Should Know

What Is This Project?

Instead of a traditional poster, you will create a short documentary-style video using Canva that explains why your chosen American matters to U.S. history.

Your goal is not just to tell us who they were, but why we should remember them.

Step 1: Research (Required)

Research an American leader, activist, reformer, or visionary who is often underrepresented or overlooked in traditional history textbooks.

Use the planning toolkit to assist you.

Step 2: Canva Video Requirements (30–60 Seconds)

Your video must include ALL of the following:

1. Title & Introduction (5–8 sec)

• Person’s name

• Time period

• One-sentence hook
  (Example: “You may not know her name, but her work changed American labor laws forever.”)
  

2. Historical Context (NEW – Required)

Explain:

• What was happening in the U.S. at the time

• What problem or injustice this person responded to
  

This should connect to something we’ve studied in class.

3. Impact & Significance (Most Important Section)

Explain at least TWO:

• What did they change?

• Who benefited from their actions?

• Who opposed them?
  

• How did their actions affect the U.S. long-term?
  

4. Quote or Primary Source Analysis

• Include one quote or primary source

• Explain:

• What it shows about their beliefs

• Why it matters historically

The quote should be read, shown, or narrated on screen.

5. Historical Claim (Conclusion)

End with a clear claim:

“This person should be remembered because…”

Support it with evidence.

Step 3: Canva Technical Requirements

You must:

• Create the video in Canva

• Use at least 6–10 slides/scenes

• Include

• Images (photos, documents, symbols)

• Text overlays (short & readable)

• Voiceover OR captions

• Background music