This program examines the contributions of American servicewomen to the Space Race. From the late 1950s through the 1960s, the United States engaged in the Space Race against the Soviet Union, each trying to become the first country to put a man on the moon. Early American astronauts were all men with a military background. NASA decided not to allow women to become astronauts during this period. Although they were excluded from space flight, women contributed to the Space Race in supporting roles, including Aerospace Nursing.

The purpose of this lesson is to help students understand the U.S. foreign policy toward the Soviet Union during the Cold War. It focuses on spying and includes the Rosenbergs, Alger Hiss, and U-2 Pilot Francis Gary Powers.  Students will analyze primary and secondary sources while working in groups and individually.   

In this Thematic Exploration, students will explore the different ways artists represent individuals in portraits. They will learn to gather clues about the time period in which the portrait was created, the lives of the subjects, and the thoughts of the artists.

Using portraits from the VMFA's collection, students will explore the Who, What, When, Where, and Why of portraiture. Guiding questions are woven throughout the activity, alongside a close examination of seven different portraits from a variety of different eras and cultures. Students are encouraged to observe, interpret, analyze, and reflect thoughtfully in each step. This activity also includes summative reflection questions to wrap up the conversation, as well as an optional "Create Your Own Portrait" activity.

The purpose of this lesson is to help students understand how new technologies, innovations, and government policies led to a new wave of internal and international migration and growth which was positive for some although it resulted in more displacement for American Indians.