Lincoln's Kentucky Connections and Views on Slavery

Lesson Plan Two

"I am naturally anti-slavery. If slavery is not wrong, nothing is wrong. I can not remember when I did not so think, and feel.”
April 4, 1864 - Letter to Albert Hodges

Students will look at the early years of Lincoln’s life in Kentucky and how his exposure to slavery during these formative years shaped his decisions regarding slavery throughout the rest of his life. Abraham Lincoln never forgot his Kentucky roots. Many of his closest friends and trusted advisors were from Kentucky. Students will be introduced to several of Lincoln’s Kentucky associates and recognize that each of these Kentuckians had differing views on slavery, thus providing a microcosm of the issues troubling the nation at large.

Content: Social Studies
Grade Level: 6 – 8
Length: 3-5 days

The lesson consists of the following items:

• Essential Questions
• Key Concepts/Skills
• Curriculum Standards
• Procedures
• Preparation of Materials/Resources
• Background Information for Teachers
• Bloom's Taxonomy and Multiple Intelligences
• Assessment
• Student Section
• Interactive Flash Games

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