Summary: This lesson uses Newark, New Jersey, as a case study of the Great Migration, the dramatic movement of African Americans from Southern states to Northern states. Students analyze five historical documents to learn about the push-pull factors of the time and answer the question: Why did African Americans migrate to Newark at the beginning of the 20th century?
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: Have individuals and groups influenced public policy during this time period? If so, how and what has been the impact?
- 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.EconNE.8.a: Analyze the push-pull factors that led to the Great Migration
- 6.1.12.HistoryCC.8.a: Make evidence-based inferences to explain why the Great Migration led to heightened racial tensions, restrictive laws, a rise in repressive organizations, and an increase in violence
Link to Lesson: Great Migration | Digital Inquiry Group