TEACHING A PEOPLE’S HISTORY OF ABOLITION AND THE CIVIL WAR

The collection aims to increase understanding of how ordinary citizens, with ideas that seem radical and idealistic, can challenge unjust laws, join with others to mobilize, pressure politicians to act, and fundamentally change society. The lessons—which include inquiry questions, primary and secondary source materials, literacy and writing approaches, and critical-thinking strategies—provide educators with a blueprint for addressing issues of race, racism, and equity. The various tactics employed include role playing, writing poetry, questioning common beliefs, making art, mapping the slave economy, constructing arguments, and more, all designed to help students and teachers envision the possibility of overcoming overwhelming odds to build a better world.