Summary: Faced with Confederate sympathizers in the state of Maryland, surrounding Washington, D.C., President Lincoln ordered the suspension the writ of habeas corpus. One of the first to be arrested and imprisoned was John Merryman. The lesson utilizes a moot court to decide if Merryman’s case was correctly decided. It will look at the decision of Chief Justice Roger Taney and arguments from President Lincoln.
Overarching Question:
- CIVICS: How well does the government balance individual rights and the common good, including the need to maintain order, safety and a healthy environment, during this time period?
NJ Student Learning Standards for Social Studies:
- 6.1.12.CivicsDP.4.b: Analyze how ideas found in key documents contributed to demanding equality for all (i.e., the Declaration of Independence, the Seneca Falls Declaration of Sentiments and Resolutions, the Emancipation Proclamation, and the Gettysburg Address).
Link to Lesson: Lesson coming soon.