History of the Civil War

The Civil War was a brutal and deadly clash between two Americas.  Some historians call it "The Second Revolutionary War."  This was the war that killed the most Americans.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WO2W-4hacHg  - Watch for a brief overview

It was a battle between the north and south 

It gave rise to new leaders 

Many battles took place

There were many casualties on both sides

In the end, the south surrendered and the union was preserved.

But the hard work was just beginning.  

The south was destroyed and reconstruction began.

Students will:

1. Examine the causes of the civil war - Monday

2. Identify and research leaders - Tuesday

3. Investigate famous battles - Wednesday

4. Research the effects of the war - Thursday

Culminating Task:

The class will be divided into 2 groups, North and South.  Each group will have a leader (Abraham Lincoln or Jefferson Davis).  Students will make arguments as to why their side is the better future for America.  The class will be set up in the form of a congress and each student will represent either a slave or free state.  The students will have to argue from the basis of their state, representing it's citizens.