The Promises of America
How have interactions between the United States government and indigenous nations changed throughout history?
In this lesson, students will explore and evaluate period-relevant treaties in relation to the concept of social contracts and their evolution.
“In 1787, in the Northwest Ordinance, Congress pledged that the utmost good faith would always be observed towards the Indigenous peoples of the nation and that land would never be taken from them without their consent. In reality, the policy of the United States fluctuated many times over the next two hundred years.”
Featured Lesson Plans
Promises and Protections: Are Rights Equal for Everyone?
Students will investigate whether natural rights have been equally protected for all people in the United States throughout history. Through analysis of constitutional rights, Jim Crow laws, voting rights expansion, and civic discussion, students will examine how rights and freedoms have been protected, limited, and expanded over time.
It Makes Sense! Common, That Is!
Students will trace the establishment of Republicanism in history using the primary sources including the Mayflower Compact, Common Sense, Declaration Of Independence, Articles Of Confederation, Constitution.
Beyond the Text
In this lesson, students investigate how the Supreme Court expands, limits, and redefines individual rights over time by analyzing landmark constitutional cases. Through a collaborative gallery walk and peer presentations, students compare legal precedents and construct an evidence-based argument on whether the Court should protect rights not explicitly written in the Constitution.