Homeschool Unit Study: Black History
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Black history in the United States of America begins with a dark past and a struggle for equal rights. First entering the nation as slaves against their will, the abolition of slavery following the American Civil War meant that several million former slaves were now free. This new way of living created new problems for America as these freed slaves struggled to gain full and equal rights.
A unit study focusing on Black history in America should focus on several key factors, such as slavery, the Emancipation Proclamation, the civil rights movement, and famous black individuals that have impacted our world. Following the Civil War, the former slaves were free, but still struggled for equal rights.
After World War II, black Americans increased their efforts to gain full and equal rights. People like Reverend Martin Luther King, Jr.; Rosa Parks; and Malcolm X are just a few of the important figures during this pivotal time in history. The struggle for equality lasted decades, and even into the modern era, racial division is prevalent.
In addition to the heroes from the Civil Rights Movement, you can delve into the biographies of other notable people, such as George Washington Carver, Maya Angelou, Neil deGrasse Tyson, and Barack Obama. The list of biographies could go on and on, as you introduce the literary, artistic, scientific, and political contributions these individuals have given to the United States and the world.
Useful Resources
Videos
Activities
Historical Understanding of Jazz Music and Dance (Kennedy Center)
Rosa Parks Lesson Plan (Teacher Scholastic)
Ruby Bridges' role in the Civil Rights Movement (Teacher Scholsatic)
Underground Railroad Lesson and Worksheet (Education)
Maya Angelou Lesson and Worksheet (Education)
Map with Routes of the Underground Railroad (National Geographic)
Biographies of Signifigant African American Athletes (Biography)