1/22 Today in History - social studies

Monday

January 20, 1986

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day was celebrated as a federal holiday for the first time. The establishment of MLK Jr. Day commemorates the life and legacy of the civil rights leader. This recognition reflects his enduring impact on promoting equality, justice, and social change, inspiring generations to strive for a more inclusive society.

Based on the text, what can you infer about the significance of establishing MLK Jr. Day as a federal holiday?

• It primarily serves as a day off from work

• It demonstrates national recognition of civil rights progress

• It was established to increase tourism

• It only impacts certain regions of the country

Tuesday

January 21, 1789

The very first American novel, The Power of Sympathy, was printed in Boston. This pioneering work marked a significant moment in American literary history, setting the stage for the development of the novel as a prominent form of storytelling in the United States.

What text evidence supports the passage's emphasis on the novel's significance?

• The mention of Boston only

• The phrase "setting the stage"

• The word "printed" being used

• The title of the novel

Wednesday

January 22, 1901

On January 22, 1901, Queen Victoria died at the age of 81, ending her 63-year reign as the British monarch. Her death marked the close of the Victorian Era, a period of immense industrial, cultural, and imperial expansion for Britain. Victoria's passing ushered in the Edwardian Era, with her son Edward VII ascending to the throne.

What can be inferred about Britain during Queen Victoria’s reign?

•  It was a time of economic decline

• The country remained culturally stagnant

• The empire was shrinking in size

• It was a period of significant growth and progress

Thursday

January 23, 1849

Elizabeth Blackwell received a medical degree from Geneva College, becoming the first female physician officially recognized in US history. Her achievement shattered gender barriers in medicine, paving the way for future generations of women to pursue careers in healthcare. Dr. Blackwell's legacy continues to inspire women in medicine around the world.

Which statement best describes the author’s point of view on Elizabeth Blackwell?

• She was lucky to get into medical school

• She faced many challenges in her career

• She was an influential pioneer in medicine

• She only impacted American healthcare

Friday

January 24, 1984

The first Apple Macintosh computer was introduced. This groundbreaking release revolutionized personal computing, setting new standards for user-friendly design and innovation in technology.

How does the phrase “personal computing” impact the development of ideas in the text?

• 1. It shows that Apple Macintosh was focused on impacting business computing.

• 2. It helps readers understand that Apple Macintosh was primarily focused on gaming technology.

• 1. It helps readers understand that Apple Macintosh prioritized the user experience.

• 1. It shows that Apple Macintosh was innovative and focused on reducing the cost of all personal computers.

Monday

January 13, 2000

Bill Gates resigned as CEO of Microsoft. Gates' departure marked a pivotal moment in tech history. Transitioning to focus on philanthropy, he left an indelible legacy at Microsoft. His leadership shaped the company's trajectory, cementing its position as a global tech powerhouse and influencing the future of computing.

What word best describes the author's point of view regarding Gates' departure?

• 1. Critical

• 1. Nostalgic

• 1. Objective

• 1. Disapproving

Tuesday

January 14, 1973

An Elvis Presley concert was broadcast live from Hawaii and set the record as the most-watched broadcast by an entertainer in television history. In "Aloha from Hawaii," Elvis’s electrifying performance captivated millions worldwide. It remains an iconic moment in music history, solidifying his status as the "King of Rock and Roll."

Based on the text, what evidence supports Elvis Presley's significance in entertainment history?

• 1. His concert set a viewership record for entertainers on television

• 1. He performed multiple concerts in Hawaii

• 1. He invented rock and roll music

• 1. He was the first musician to perform in Hawaii

Wednesday

January 15, 1559

Elizabeth Tudor was crowned Queen Elizabeth I at Westminster Abbey in London. Her coronation marked the beginning of a remarkable reign known as the Elizabethan Era. Queen Elizabeth I's rule saw England prosper culturally and politically, with her leadership symbolizing strength, intelligence, and diplomacy during a pivotal period in history.

Based on the way it is used in the text, the word “pivotal” most likely means

• 1. Unchanging

• 1. Unimportant

• 1. Crucial

• 1. Peaceful

Thursday

January 16, 1961

Mickey Mantle signed a contract, securing his position as the highest-paid baseball player in the American League. Mantle’s record-breaking compensation not only underscores his exceptional skill and popularity but also shows the evolving significance of professional athletes in shaping American sports culture.

What is the central idea of the paragraph above?

• 1. Baseball players were underpaid during this era

• 1. Mickey Mantle’s contract reflected his importance in baseball and society

• 1. The American League was more prestigious than other leagues

• 1. Professional athletes had little influence on culture

Friday

January 17, 1773

Captain James Cook and his crew became the first Europeans to sail below the Antarctic Circle. This unprecedented journey expanded the known boundaries of the world, contributing valuable geographical knowledge. While Cook's voyages are often celebrated for their historical significance, it is important to acknowledge the complex legacy associated with his actions, which helped to facilitate the expansion of European colonialism.

Which statement is best supported by evidence from the text?

• 1. Cook's journey led directly to Antarctic colonization

• 1. The voyage contributed to geographical knowledge

• 1. Cook's crew was poorly prepared for the journey

• 1. The Antarctic Circle was well-mapped before Cook