Students will examine the life of Phillis Wheatley. They will explore how as a woman, Phillis was able to fight for freedom during the American Revolution as enslaved, or formerly enslaved people. Students will analyze primary and secondary sources to learn more about the life and journey of Phillis, as well as her impact on historical events.

Students will examine the life of a Free African American during the Revolutionary War period. This will take place as a case study into the life of Prince Hall. Prince Hall fought for more rights of African Americans during his lifetime.

Students will examine the life of Crispus Attucks and/or James Lafayette. They will explore how both men were able to fight for their freedom as enslaved, or formerly enslaved people. Students will analyze primary and secondary sources to learn more about the life and journey of  both of these men, as well as their impact on historical events.

When sharing secondary sources that tell a particular story of our past and present, consider how you might support students in enacting a critical lens to identify biases and missing or misrepresented perspectives. When sharing primary sources connected to experiences of violence or oppression, consider how you might honor students' developmental needs, as well as how you might frame sources in ways that affirm the dignity and humanity of people connected to those experiences. These resources can help.

Students will examine the Three-Fifths Compromise. They will look at how the Constitutional Convention decided to handle the issue of enslavement in legislation. Students will analyze primary and secondary sources to learn more about the development and lasting impact of this compromise.

Students will examine the impact of the Emancipation Proclamation on the lives of formerly enslaved people in Virginia. Students will analyze primary and secondary sources to gain context and knowledge about how the Emancipation Proclamation impacted individuals lives directly. Students will develop inquiries and questions about the experiences and history that they learn about through these learning activities.