Many view history as a dry subject to study with visions of dust clouds rising from giant tomes. But this is hardly history's reality. History is vibrant and alive; we can touch it and see it ourselves. Right now in the 21st century. Today.

The Documents

The first few things that come to mind for many American when they hear the words “Historical Documents” are The Constitution and the Declaration of Independence, just to name a few. But there is so much more to be found and studied and enjoyed. Numerous websites and curators can lead you into the bygone eras. The Raab Collection, for instance, features autographed documents from presidents, generals, poets, and many more.

Famous People Have Famous Locales

The knowledge we gain of historical figures can be greatly augmented by a visit to a place they lived or worked, or perhaps a location linked to them. Our five senses can be engaged to absorb abstract knowledge of people and the times they lived through.

The U.S. Military

Many of the more memorable events in the history of the United States are, sadly, centered around armed conflict. These conflicts have given rise to the most famous, and infamous, names we know. As a student of the U.S. Civil War, you might take an interest in the papers of Jefferson Davis, arguably best known as the President of the Confederate States of America. After studying Jefferson Davis, one can take a tour of his Civil War home now in Richmond, Virginia.

Perhaps your interests go a bit further back to, say, the father of our country, George Washington. After seeing documents in his own hand, including personal correspondence, there are many places to visit to learn more. Perhaps some of the sites of the battles he fought in the French and Indian War including the early battles fought in what is now Western Pennsylvania, the Battle of Jumonville Glen and Fort Necessity. And, of course, the sites in and around Washington D.C.

Politicians and Statesmen

President Ronald Reagan, before he was President, was a well-known face in Hollywood. From his first credit in 1937 through the mid-1960s, he enjoyed many different roles. Mr. Reagan served as Governor of California from 1967 through 1975, and after winning the 1980 Presidential Election, he served in that office 1981-1989.

Other Contributors to American Culture

Of course, many people who were neither military nor public office holders have shaped the United States of America. For example, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. changed the United States at a fundamental level. There are locations across the country one can see sights he once saw. Among those are the hotel in Memphis, Tennessee where Dr. King’s life was cut short, and the church in Montgomery, Alabama where he preached from the pulpit. By viewing these sites, you will understand a new dimension of Dr. King’s legacy.

Putting It All Together

There are so many people who have generated documents, books, and letters that is enough to fill libraries. They also have prominent locations forever linked with their names. Visiting these places after perusing some of the more intimate and personal documents bearing their names can add a depth of richness to our knowledge and understanding of people who accomplished so very much.

“The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page.” – Saint Augustine