American History Courses and Certifications

The Machines That Built America

Explore revolutionary inventions and their creators, from dishwashers to power tools, wireless tech to motorcycles, that shaped modern America and transformed industries.

• YouTube
• 1 hour 30 minutes
• On-Demand
• Free Video

America - Our Defining Hours - History

Explore pivotal moments in American history, from the Revolutionary War to World War II, through key battles, influential figures, and social movements that shaped the nation.

• YouTube
• 2 hours 30 minutes
• On-Demand
• Free Video

America: Promised Land - History

Explore the diverse immigration patterns that shaped America's population through interviews, geographical imagery, and historical insights.

• YouTube
• 30 minutes
• On-Demand
• Free Video

Extra Credits

Extra History: The Articles of Confederation

Explore the early U.S. government's challenges and evolution through the Articles of Confederation in this engaging animated history series.

• YouTube
• 30 minutes
• On-Demand
• Free Video

Simple History

The Wild West - 1865 - 1895

Explore the American frontier's iconic figures, events, and innovations from 1865-1895, including gunslingers, gold rushes, and the Pony Express.

• YouTube
• 1 hour 30 minutes
• On-Demand
• Free Video

Wondrium

Sending the First Men to the Moon

Explore JFK's pivotal decision to launch the Moon mission, examining its historical context, political motivations, and far-reaching impact on the Cold War space race.

• YouTube
• 29 minutes
• On-Demand
• Free Video

Wondrium

The Road to Roe v. Wade - Liberty on Trial in America

Explore the legal journey leading to Roe v. Wade, including cases on sterilization and contraception. Gain insights into the landmark decision's origins, key players, and societal impact.

• YouTube
• 29 minutes
• On-Demand
• Free Video

Wondrium

How the Assassination of JFK Changed Our World

Explore how JFK's assassination altered history through Professor Fears's personal insights on the Cold War, Cuban Missile Crisis, and political landscape of the 1960s.

• YouTube
• 30 minutes
• On-Demand
• Free Video

Wondrium

Western Violence, Law, and Order - The American West: History, Myth, and Legacy

Explore the evolution of justice in the American West, from vigilante groups to corporate conflicts, examining the impact of violence on society and the eventual triumph of due process.

• YouTube
• 30 minutes
• On-Demand
• Free Video

IT'S HISTORY

The Rise and Fall of Tombstone Arizona

Explore Tombstone's rise from mining town to Wild West icon, its famous gunfights, economic challenges, and enduring legacy as a symbol of frontier America.

• YouTube
• 25 minutes
• On-Demand
• Free Video

IT'S HISTORY

What's on the Rooftops of Famous Texan Buildings?

Explore iconic Texan buildings' rooftops, from the Alamo to modern skyscrapers. Discover how these architectural features reflect Texas's rich history, culture, and future aspirations.

• YouTube
• 28 minutes
• On-Demand
• Free Video

IT'S HISTORY

What Happened to America's Telegraph Lines? How the Telegraph Transformed America - It's History

Explore the rise and fall of America's telegraph system, from Morse's invention to Western Union's monopoly, and its profound impact on communication and society.

• YouTube
• 29 minutes
• On-Demand
• Free Video

IT'S HISTORY

The Rise and Fall of Atlantic City - A Tale of Urban Decay

Explore Atlantic City's fascinating journey from indigenous settlement to bustling resort town, through Prohibition, casino boom, and urban decay. Discover its iconic landmarks, bizarre attractions, and surprising secrets.

• YouTube
• 28 minutes
• On-Demand
• Free Video

IT'S HISTORY

Why a Woman Was the First to Go Over the Niagara Falls in a Barrel - It's History

Explore the history of Niagara Falls daredevils, focusing on Annie Edson Taylor, the first person to survive going over the falls in a barrel, and other notable stunts and crossings throughout the years.

• YouTube
• 25 minutes
• On-Demand
• Free Video

America: The State of Our Democracy

Join three esteemed experts and professors of history as they present their views on American democracy, filmed live at a special Great Lectures event in New York City.

• The Great Courses Plus
• 2-3 hours
• On-Demand
• Free Trial Available