Monuments to Freedom: The People's House

"The People's House" is an in-depth, guided tour of the home of the President of the United States. Through guttings, additions, redecorations, and wars, the White House has endured as a symbol of freedom, the presidency, and America itself.

Vocabulary

Discussion Questions

  1. Which room of the White House is dedicated to a president?
  2. What technological changes were made to the White House during the 19th century? How did these changes effect the quality of life of the president and his family? How did these changes effect the way the president worked?
  3. Which president held the first televised press conference? Discuss how T.V. has changed the presidency.
  4. What were the "fireside chats?" How did FDR use them to help people during the Great Depression?
  5. Why have all of the presidents since FDR chosen to record all conversations held in the Oval Office? How did these tapes effect the presidency of Richard Nixon?
  6. Beginning in the early 20th century, more and more foreign diplomats, kings, queens, presidents, and dictators visited the White House. Why was it that more foreign dignitaries wanted to visit the President of the United States in the 20th century?
  7. What color would the White House be if it was not painted white?
  8. How did the Civil War effect life in the White House?
  9. What recent technological development makes it even easier for the president to stay in touch with many Americans?

Research Projects

  1. In your opinion, what were the three most important decisions ever made in the White House? Explain why these decisions had a great impact on history.
  2. A few of the presidents had children who grew up in the White House. In a short story, describe a day in the life of a son or daughter of one of these presidents. (For example, you may choose a child of Abraham Lincoln, Theodore Roosevelt, or John F. Kennedy, among others.)

Classroom Materials
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