Bookended by the original Star-Spangled Banner and more recent reimagined versions, this stack traces the “land of the free” from its roots as a limited democracy to a far more expansive one, crediting the collective bravery of its marginalized citizens for driving that long road to universal freedom.
Collective Bravery
Building Block Stacks 1
America and the Star Spangled Banner
Compelling Question
Was America the "Land of the Free, Home of the Brave?"
About the inquiry
The phrase “Land of the Free and the Home of the Brave” comes from The Star-Spangled Banner, written by Francis Scott Key during the War of 1812. Over time, these words–freedom and bravery–have become hallmarks of America’s identity, reflecting the nation’s ideals of liberty and courage. Yet, the journey to embody these values has been […]
Instructional Snapshot
To begin, pose the questions, “What do you think it means to be collectively brave? and “What do you think is meant when a country has universal freed…
1 Supporting Questions
Building Block Stacks 2
Bravery and Native Americans
Compelling Question
Can freedom come without collective bravery? (Native Americans)
About the inquiry
For much of American history, the indigenous peoples of the United States faced immense challenges, from genocide to forced relocation to family separation. In the face of a mortal threat to their existence, however, indigenous people demonstrated incredible bravery. Tribal groups often formed alliances to push back against mistreatment and lobby for land, rights, and […]
Instructional Snapshot
To begin, split the class into four groups and distribute one of Sources A-D to each group. Ask each group to examine the source, prepare to summarize…
1 Supporting Questions
Building Block Stacks 3
Bravery and Women’s Suffrage
Compelling Question
Can freedom come without collective bravery? (Women's Suffrage)
About the inquiry
Throughout American history, women have faced significant barriers in their fight for equality, from suffrage struggles to the ongoing quest for workplace and social rights. Despite these challenges, countless women have demonstrated extraordinary bravery, organizing protests, advocating for change, and breaking societal norms to demand their freedoms. Despite history’s focus on certain outstanding individuals like […]
Instructional Snapshot
Before class, print and attach Sources A-E to butcher paper and tape them up around the classroom, in stations or gallery walk format. Begin class by…
1 Supporting Questions
Building Block Stacks 4
Bravery and African Americans
Compelling Question
Can freedom come without collective bravery? (African Americans)
About the inquiry
Much of the popular history of the Civil Rights Movement leads Americans to believe that African American freedom happened thanks to a few extremely well-known heroes like Martin Luther King, Jr., Rosa Parks, and Malcolm X. While these leaders certainly played their roles and committed acts of significant bravery, this lesson aims to expand the […]
Instructional Snapshot
Start the lesson by projecting a slide or distributing a handout that includes the images provided in Sources A, B, and C. These are some of the most…