In Service of a Cause?
Overview
Students analyze images in conjunction with historical and contemporary texts, comparing and contrasting point of view, details, claims, evidence, and reasoning as they learn about the purpose of the 1859 raid on Harpers Ferry led by John Brown and consider whether or not his actions were justified in the historical context. After, students debate whether the use of force or violence in service of a cause can ever be justified.
Related Resources
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Today in History: John Brown
background information and primary sources
Grade
High School, Middle School
Subjects
Civics, English Language Arts, Social Studies
Length
200 minutes
Topics
abolition, abolitionist, arguments, claims, close reading, force, Frederick Douglass, Harper's Ferry, Henry Thoreau, John Brown, protest, terrorism, trial, violence
Author
Primary Source Nexus