Discover ways to bring history to life with featured materials, lesson plans, and resources which highlight the fascinating people and customs of the U.S. House of Representatives.
Explore primary and secondary sources for your 2026 National History Day project. All sample topics relate to this year's theme:Revolution, Reaction, Reform in History.
Kids in the House was originally published by the Office of the Clerk of the U.S. House of Representatives, providing educational and entertaining information about the legislative branch of the United States Government to students of all ages. Find activities and lessons on role of the U.S. House of Representatives and the legislative process.
The Office of the Historian has created several print publications. The most efficient method of accessing these materials is through downloads, websites, and e-publications. A limited quantity of print copies are available for educators.
Study American history by analyzing these collections of primary sources, including letters, legislation, photographs, maps, and more. Each primary source set includes a brief contextual essay, discussion questions, and classroom activities. We encourage you to download and use these materials in your classroom.
These primers guide students—and learners of all ages—as they examine the work and operations of the House of Representatives. Explore the basics of the House, from types of legislation to the rostrum in the House Chamber. Classroom activities included for educators.
Analyzing and understanding historical documents is a crucial component of social studies. Find downloadable PDFs for analyzing documents, images, artifacts, oral histories, and more.
Browse lesson plans and teaching tips for middle and high school students onBlack Americans in Congress,Women in Congress,Hispanic Americans in Congress, and other Office of the Historian publications and resources. Fill out theTeacher Book Form (PDF) for complimentary copies.
Brush up on House history with a series of fact sheets on Speakers, the House Rostrum, official records, House committees, and other related topics.
If you are planning a trip to the U.S. Capitol and want to know more before you arrive, or if you would like to lead your students on a “virtual” tour of the House of Representatives, take a few minutes to wander through this online exhibit.
Use the multi-faceted search to learn more about the individuals of “the People’s House.”
Search historic events, proceedings, and legislation on a particular date in House history.
From the first person to lie in state in the Capitol Rotunda to the youngest Member elected to the House of Representatives, view a list of congressional milestones, historic firsts, and trivia.
This timeline features some of the significant institutional and legislative milestones important to both House practice and procedure, as well as U.S. history itself.
What is the difference between apportionment and realignment? What is a discharge petition? What does the word quorum mean and how does it relate to the House of Representatives? These and other relevant congressional terms are defined in this glossary.
Library of Congress resource to explain the U.S. Constitution with expanded links to founding documents.
History, Art & Archives, U.S. House of Representatives, “Education,”https://history.house.gov/Education/(February 16, 2026)
Office of the Historian
Office of Art and Archives
Attic, Thomas Jefferson Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
(202) 226-1300
