This is a very unusual course in American history. It is taught by nationally recognized educator Lin Thompson. He is a teacher of both history and drama at his school. And that's why this course is special.

Professor Thompson's history program at Bellflower High School in the suburbs of Los Angeles has attracted international attention for its creativity and innovation. "History is a blast!" and "He makes history come alive!" are just some of the comments collected from his students.

Every lesson in the course is "taught" by a particular character. Professor Thompson has an arsenal of costumes, as well as a firm grasp on the personae of great historical figures. He dresses, talks, and acts like them. He actually becomes them!

Lin Thompson appears only briefly at the start of this course. He then "becomes" Bjarni Herjolfsson, Viking explorer and incomparable expert on who really discovered America. From that moment, students will know they are in for a fascinating trip as Bjarni gives way to Christopher Columbus, revolutionary war foot soldiers, a French trapper, and a host of other characters who provide a first-person perspective on early American history.

A New Look for American History . . . Professor Thompson’s characters will inspire students to look at history from a new perspective. Professor Thompson’s guides, while entertaining, will also teach the student to better understand American history.

The Great Courses® Early American History: Native Americans through the Forty-Niners

Taught By Professor Linwood Thompson, M.A., Brigham Young University, Bellflower High School, Los Angeles, California