Alabama voted to secede from the Union preceding the Civil War. What did women think of the decision? The lesson uses letters and newspaper articles to explain women's views on the secession and how they participated in the celebration events. Historians read authentic letters, write, and complete hands-on activities to strengthen their understanding of women's roles in the events, such as organizing the celebrations. 

Concepts

causes of the civil war, civil war, secession, american history, women's history

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Additional Tags

social studies

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Instructional Ideas

• Have learners draft a letter based on a women's point of view toward the secession
• Show photos from Alabama's secession party to strengthen pupils' engagement 

Classroom Considerations

• The topic of Civil War may be sensitive for some academics 

Pros

• The lesson provides multiple primary sources
• Gives accommodations to meet the needs of diverse learners 

Cons

• None