Summary: This lesson provides an opportunity to analyze primary and secondary written texts and political cartoons in order to both understand the participation of black soldiers in World War I and sharpen the literacy skills related to the distinction between imply and infer. These essential literacy skills will be applied to answer two essential questions; 1) How did World War I affect (or impact) the lives of African Americans?; and 2) To what extent did the patriotism of African Americans in World War I result in greater civil rights and racial justice?
Overarching Questions:
- CIVICS: Have the concepts of liberty, justice and/or equality changed during the time period? If so, how and what has been the impact?
- 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?
- CIVICS: Have individuals and groups influenced public policy during this time period? If so, how and what has been the impact?
NJ Student learning Standards for Social Studies:
- 6.1.12.EconNM.7.a: Assess the immediate and long-term impact of women and African Americans entering the work force in large numbers during World War I.
Link to Lesson: wwi-african-american-soldiers.pdf (theworldwar.org)