History Videos - Footage Vault

Simple animated World War II map and characters from an OverSimplified history video

Why OverSimplified’s WW2 Part 1 Still Works So Well

Why OverSimplified’s WW2 Part 1 still works: simple art, fast pacing, humor, and clear cause-and-effect make a huge war easier to understand.

By Footage Vault

June 21, 2026September 13, 2026

President Eisenhower era image marking Alaska becoming the 49th U.S. state

History

Alaska Statehood: How It Became the 49th State in 1959

Alaska became the 49th U.S. state on January 3, 1959. Learn how the Statehood Act, Cold War concerns, land questions, and a long local campaign led to statehood.

By Footage Vault

January 23, 2026September 13, 2026

Historical image representing the Haitian Revolution and Haiti's 1804 independence

History

Haitian Revolution: How Haiti Won Independence in 1804

Haiti declared independence on January 1, 1804 after a revolution led by formerly enslaved people. Learn how the revolt began, why France returned, and why Haiti’s victory changed world history.

By Footage Vault

January 19, 2026September 13, 2026

Historical image about the 1912 Hillsville courthouse shooting in Carroll County, Virginia

History

Hillsville Courthouse Massacre: What Happened in 1912

Learn what happened in the 1912 Hillsville Courthouse Massacre, who Floyd Allen was, why gunfire erupted, and how the tragedy shaped Virginia history.

By Footage Vault

November 30, 2025September 14, 2026