What's written on the back of the Declaration of Independence? What did the first American flag look like? Here's how to learn more about American history.

Our past is such an important part of who we are. There are many ways for you and your family to learn more about history. Many excellent resources are now available online, while others are a part of your community. Here are some recommendations on where to go to help make history come alive for you and your kids.

Internet History Resources

United States Library of Congress (http://www.loc.gov): The Library of Congress website has so much to offer, you'll never get through all the photos, video, audio and documents. The historical recordings are especially amazing—you can listen to 19th and 20th century folk songs, marches, Native American songs, jazz, early radio broadcasts, and much more.

National Archives (http://www.archives.gov): Want to know what's really written on the back of the Declaration of Independence? If you visit the National Archives website, you'll find out. There you'll find a wealth of information on the Constitution, Declaration of Independence, Bill of Rights, Emancipation Proclamation and other important documents.

National Museum of the American Indian (http://www.nmai.si.edu): One of the Smithsonian museums, the National Museum of the American Indian has information on past and present Native American Life. The website's online exhibitions offer a view into Native American life across North American, including a discussion of Iroquois beadwork, ranching on the Plains and art of the North West Coast.

Local History Resources

Local Archives: You can plan a visit to your state's official library or, if that's too far, your community's historical society or archives (perhaps housed in your public library). Before you go, talk with your children about what you might want to learn about. Perhaps it would be fun to learn more about the history of your neighborhood or even your house. Maybe you want to check out the early years of your city's politics by looking at political posters, buttons and photos.

Local People: When you and your children have a chance to talk with people who have lived in your neighborhood for a long time, ask them about the past. Start by asking about how the area has changed—you're likely to find out some little known facts that will amaze you!

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