Fact Sheets

Brush up on House history with a series of fact sheets on Speakers, the House Rostrum, Official Records, and other related topics. A starting point for research projects or inquiries about the House, these overviews can be used in the classroom or for quick reference.

<em>Black Americans in Congress </em>(PDF)<em><br /></em>

Black Americans in Congress (PDF)

Review a brief synopsis of Black Americans who have served in Congress. Joseph Rainey, William Dawson, and Gus Hawkins are a few of the African-American Members who made history in the House.

House Committees (PDF)

House Committees (PDF)

Discover facts and milestones about the House committee system, which plays an integral role in the work conducted by Congress.

House Rostrum (PDF)

House Rostrum (PDF)

Learn about the significance of the symbols in the House Chamber. From the mace to the inkstand, the House Rostrum is steeped in history and tradition.

Official Records of the House of Representatives (PDF)

Official Records of the House of Representatives (PDF)

Read about the ins and outs of House Records. Public proceedings and the behind-the-scenes work of congressional staff are captured by a large volume of documents each Congress.

Speakers of the House (PDF)

Speakers of the House (PDF)

Find out more about the most powerful Representatives in the House. As Speakers, Frederick A.C. Muhlenberg, Sam Rayburn, J. Dennis Hastert, and Nancy Pelosi, all left their mark in history and in the House.

<em>Women in Congress </em>(PDF)

Women in Congress (PDF)

Test your knowledge of women who served in Congress. Jeannette Rankin, Mary Norton, and Shirley Chisholm are a few of the women Members who made history in the House.

Teacher Book Request Form

(PDF) Complimentary copies of the Office of the Historian publications Women in Congress and Black Americans in Congress are available for educators, subject to availability.

Visiting the Capitol

Information and tips for teachers and school groups planning a trip to the U.S. Capitol.