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Slavery, the Civil War, and Reconstruction

Slavery was embedded into America’s fabric by the time of the ratification of the Constitution. How did this affect how long slavery lasted in America and how it ended? The 13th, 14th, and 15th Amendments ended slavery in America and tried to rebuild our nation on a stronger constitutional foundation. Do you think that these amendments changed the Constitution so much that it was like a re-birth—a “Second Founding”—of our nation?

Big Questions

The 13th, 14th, and 15th Amendments ended slavery in America and tried to rebuild our nation on a stronger constitutional foundation. Do you think that these Amendments changed the Constitution so much that it was like a re-birth—a “Second Founding”?

13th Amendment - Visit Companion Unit

Slavery was embedded into America’s fabric by the time of the ratification of the Constitution. Do you think this affected how long slavery lasted in America and how it ended?

14th Amendment - Visit Companion Unit

How did the 14 Amendment transform the Constitution? How does it promote equality and protect freedom?

Video: Scholar Exchange: Slavery in America – Advanced Level
Video: Scholar Exchange: Slavery in America – Introductory Level
Video: Scholar Exchange: Slavery in American with Judge Theodore McKee
Video: The Dred Scott Decision With Justice Neil Gorsuch
Video: Frederick Douglass: "Letter To My Old Master" Theatrical Performance
Video: The Emancipation Proclamation: A Theatrical Performance

Classroom Materials

Scholar Exchange Briefing Document

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Scholar Exchange Slides

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Explore Slavery, the Civil War, and Reconstruction Questions

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Scholar Exchanges

Part lecture and part lively conversation, these online classes allow students, teachers, and parents can join in discussions with scholars on core Constitutional topics.

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