Summary: The history of New Jersey has closely paralleled that of the United States. This lesson looks at the role of New Jersey during World War I. Topics include the impact of the war on New Jersey’s economy, it’s role in training troops and serving as a port for transport to and from the Western Front, the role of women, and the explosion of the Black Tom depot.
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?
- NEW JERSEY: How have changes in New Jersey during this time period influenced U.S. history?
NJ Student Learning Standards for Social Studies
- 6.1.12.CivicsDP.7.a: Evaluate the impact of government policies designed to promote patriotism and to protect national security during times of war on individual rights (i.e., the Espionage Act and the Sedition Amendment).
- 6.1.12.HistoryCA.7.a: Determine the extent to which propaganda, the media, and special interest groups shaped American public opinion and American foreign policy during World War I and compare those factors to contemporary American involvement in another country
Link to Lesson: New Jersey and World War I