1-4.3
Standard 1-4: The student will demonstrate an understanding of the foundations and principles of American democracy.
1-4.3 Recall the contributions made by historic and political figures to democracy in the United States, including George Washington, Benjamin Franklin, Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln, Martin Luther King Jr., and Rosa Parks. (P, H)
It Is Essential For Students To Know:
- It is essential for students to know why George Washington was selected as the first president of the U.S. and his role in the defeat of the British in the Revolutionary War.
- Students should understand the importance of Benjamin Franklin’s “Poor Richare’s almanac”, his scientific experiments and his participation in the country’s founding.
- It is essential for students to understand Thomas Jefferson’s role in writing the “Declaration of Independence”.
- Abraham Lincoln had an important role in the “Emancipation Proclamation".
- Students must understand the importance of Rosa Park’s actions as part of the bus boycott in Montgomery, Alabama.
- The significance of Martin Luther King’s “I Have a Dream Speech” should be discussed.
- It is essential that students understand that all of these Americans have played important roles in promoting and protecting American democratic values.
It Is Not Essential For Students To Know:
- It is not essential for students to know about the personal lives of any of these individuals.
- Students do not need to memorize any of the speeches made by these famous Americans.
- It is not essential that students know specific policy issues from the presidencies of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, or Abraham Lincoln.
1-4.3 Links To Information For Teachers