SAT Subject Test in United States History

The SAT Subject Test in United States History assesses students' knowledge of American history, including key events, themes, and figures.

Colonial Foundations and Early AmericaThe Constitution and Early RepublicCivil War and Reconstruction
Industrialization and the Progressive EraAmerica on the World Stage: Wars and DiplomacyCivil Rights and Social Movements
Understanding Modern Debates through HistoryAnalyzing Primary SourcesEngaging in Civic Participation
Mastering Multiple-Choice QuestionsActive Review and Practice TestsCreating Timelines and Visual AidsFocusing on Key Themes and Patterns
Colonial Foundations...The Constitution and...Civil War and Recons...Industrialization an...America on the World...Civil Rights and Soc...Understanding Modern...Analyzing Primary So...Engaging in Civic Pa...Mastering Multiple-C...Active Review and Pr...Creating Timelines a...Focusing on Key Them...
Practical Applications

Analyzing Primary Sources

Thinking Like a Historian

Primary sources—documents, speeches, photos, and letters from the past—are the building blocks of history. Learning to read, analyze, and interpret them helps you understand what people thought and felt at the time.

How to Analyze

  • Who created the source?
  • What was their purpose?
  • What historical context surrounds it?
  • Is it reliable or biased?

Real-World Use

These skills are valuable not just for tests, but for evaluating information in everyday life.

Examples

  • A student analyzes a World War II letter to learn about life on the home front.

  • A class examines propaganda posters to identify persuasive techniques.

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Engaging in Civic Participation