Here’s an advance look at some of the “This Day in Geographic History” (TDIGH) events coming up this week. For each date, we’ve matched it with a map or visual, background information, and a classroom activity so you can plan ahead.
Wednesday, January 4
TDIGH: Euro Makes its International Debut
Though the euro became the official currency of the European Union in 1999, today only 19 out of the 28 EU member countries use it.
Background: Creation of the European Union
Activity: The euro is a reserve currency—take our Reserve Currency Quiz!
Thursday, January 5
The type of radiation known as X-rays revolutionized dentistry and medicine by allowing doctors to create pictures of the inside of bodies.
Visual: Electromagnetic Spectrum
Background: Video – 60 Seconds of Science: How do X-Rays work?
Activity: Explore this interactive to see how NASA uses X-ray technology to study the universe.
Friday, January 6
TDIGH: Morse Demonstrates his Telegraph
By using Morse code to send signals through a cable, the telegraph made worldwide communication possible for the first time.
Map: Global telegraph network (1872)
Background: How events in Morse’s life may have inspired his invention
Activity: Have students use the international Morse code chart to practice sending messages to each other. *If you have more time, try part of this activity.
Saturday, January 7
TDIGH: Galileo Discovers Jupiter’s Moons
In 1610 the Italian astronomer discovered Jupiter’s four moons, helping disprove the theory that everything revolves around the Earth.
Visual: NASA photos of Jupiter and its moons
Background: What is a moon?
Activity: Use this interactive to test some of Galileo’s famous experiments.
Sunday, January 8
In the final battle of the War of 1812 American forces, led by future president Andrew Jackson, defeated the British.
Visual: Photos and drawings about the Battle of New Orleans
Background: Timeline of the War of 1812
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