Lesson Plans for the U.S. Civil War: The Emancipation Proclamation

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The Emancipation Proclamation Robert Smalls: The Slave Who Stole a Confederate Ship and Sailed to Freedom

The waters of Charleston Harbor shimmered under the dim glow of the moon as a Confederate warship, the CSS Planter, rocked gently at its dock. The night air was thick with the scent of salt and smoke from the city’s torches, and the harbor was quiet, save for the occasional murmur of guards and the distant barking of dogs.

On board the Planter, a slave named Robert Smalls stood at the wheel, his hands steady, his heart pounding. Tonight, he was not just a wheelman.

Tonight, he was a captain. And if everything went according to plan, by morning, he and his family would be free.

A Plan Born from Desperation and Courage

Smalls had spent years as an enslaved deckhand, piloting Confederate ships through the dangerous waters of Charleston Harbor. He had memorized the fortifications, the patrol routes, and the secret signals needed to pass through the heavily guarded waters.

But none of that belonged to him. His skill, his knowledge, his labor—all of it was owned by men who saw him as nothing more than property. And he had had enough.

His wife, Hannah, had once begged him to find a way to escape, fearing that their children would be sold away, lost to the cruel fate that had shattered so many families before them. Smalls had promised her that if an opportunity ever came, he would not leave her behind. That opportunity had come.

The Night of the Escape

It was May 13, 1862. The Confederate officers who commanded the Planter had gone ashore for the night, leaving Smalls and the enslaved crew alone. It was the moment he had been waiting for.

"It's time," he whispered to his men.

The crew nodded, their faces tense but determined. They were all in this together—sink or sail, live or die, free or remain enslaved.

Moving quickly, Smalls donned the uniform and hat of the ship’s captain, pulling the brim low over his face. In the darkness, he might just pass for the real officer.

"Fire up the engines," he ordered.

The ship rumbled beneath their feet as it lurched forward, slipping away from the dock. No one shouted. No alarms rang. Not yet.

A Game of Deception

As the Planter approached Fort Johnson, the first checkpoint, Smalls gave the correct hand signals, mimicking the mannerisms of the Confederate captain he had studied so well.

The guards on shore waved them through. The first obstacle had been cleared.

Next came Fort Sumter, the mighty fortress standing like a grim sentinel in the middle of the harbor. It was the last and most dangerous checkpoint. If they were stopped here, there would be no escape, no second chance.

Smalls stood tall at the helm, heart hammering in his chest. He let out a long breath, then raised his hand to give the final signal. For a moment, there was silence. Then—the signal was returned. They had done it.

As the Planter sailed past the last Confederate fort, Smalls finally allowed himself to breathe. They were almost free.

A Leap into the Union’s Arms

The ship pressed forward toward the open sea, the vast Atlantic stretching before them. But their journey wasn’t over yet. They needed to reach the Union blockade, where U.S. Navy ships patrolled the waters. But the danger wasn’t over—the Union forces might mistake them for a Confederate attack ship and open fire.

As they approached the first Union vessel, Smalls acted fast. He ran up a white flag—a bedsheet—letting it billow in the night wind.

Seconds passed like hours. Then, a Union sailor shouted through a trumpet: "Halt! Identify yourself!"

Smalls stepped forward, his voice clear and unwavering. "Good morning, sir! I’ve brought you some of the old United States guns, sir!"

A stunned silence followed. Then, as the Union sailors realized what had happened, cheers erupted from the deck.

Robert Smalls, an enslaved man, had stolen a Confederate warship and delivered it to the Union—along with its artillery, supplies, and crucial Confederate codes.

A Hero’s Welcome and a New Beginning

When the Planter arrived at the Union headquarters in Beaufort, South Carolina, Smalls and his crew were welcomed as heroes. The ship and its cargo were valued at tens of thousands of dollars, and Smalls had provided critical intelligence about Confederate defenses in Charleston.

After the Battle of Shiloh

The Battle of Shiloh, fought on April 6-7, 1862, was a turning point in the Civil War, not just for its unprecedented casualties but for the way it reshaped military strategy and expanded the scope of the conflict. Before Shiloh, many in the Union and Confederacy believed the war would be relatively short, fought primarily along the Mississippi River and eastern seaboard. However, the sheer scale of the battle and its aftermath demonstrated that the war would be long, brutal, and fought across multiple theaters.

The Western Theater: Control of the Mississippi and Beyond

After the Union victory at Shiloh, General Ulysses S. Grant and his forces pushed deeper into Confederate territory, aiming to control the Mississippi River. The capture of Corinth, Mississippi, soon followed, giving the Union a crucial railroad hub. In the months that followed, Union forces led by Admiral David Farragut seized New Orleans (April 25-May 1, 1862), one of the Confederacy’s largest and most economically vital cities. This victory allowed the Union to establish a foothold in the Deep South and tighten its blockade on Confederate trade.

Further west, the war expanded into Arkansas and Missouri. The Battle of Pea Ridge (March 1862) had already demonstrated the importance of controlling the Trans-Mississippi region, where Native American tribes, particularly the Cherokee, allied with the Confederacy. Union forces, recognizing the strategic importance of these western territories, continued efforts to control key rivers, railways, and supply routes.

The Eastern Theater: Antietam and the War in Maryland

In the East, the war also intensified. After his victory in the Seven Days Battles (June 25 – July 1, 1862), Confederate General Robert E. Lee sought to bring the fight northward in an attempt to pressure Washington, D.C., and gain European recognition for the Confederacy. This led to the Maryland Campaign and the Battle of Antietam on September 17, 1862. The battle became the single bloodiest day in American history, with over 22,000 casualties. Though it ended in a tactical draw, it forced Lee’s retreat and gave President Abraham Lincoln the confidence to issue the preliminary Emancipation Proclamation, further expanding the war’s objectives to include the abolition of slavery.

The War Expands to the Coastal and Deep South

As the Union tightened its naval blockade under the Anaconda Plan, the war expanded to coastal regions previously untouched by major battles. Union forces launched campaigns to seize key Southern ports, including Charleston, Savannah, and Wilmington. The capture of Fort Pulaski in April 1862 effectively closed Savannah’s port, dealing a severe blow to Confederate trade. Meanwhile, Union forces increased their presence in Florida and the Carolinas, using amphibious assaults to disrupt Confederate supply lines.

The war’s expansion into the Deep South also saw increased guerilla warfare and internal resistance. In regions such as Tennessee, Kentucky, and Louisiana, Unionist sentiment clashed with Confederate sympathizers, leading to violent skirmishes and sabotage efforts that further destabilized the South.

The Trans-Mississippi West: New Mexico and Indian Territory

Beyond the Mississippi River, the war extended into the frontier territories. The Confederate invasion of New Mexico, culminating in the Battle of Glorieta Pass (March 26-28, 1862), demonstrated the South’s ambition to control the Southwest and secure access to California’s gold and Pacific trade routes. Although Confederate forces initially saw success, Union troops, alongside local militias, pushed them back, effectively ending Confederate aspirations in the far West.

Meanwhile, in Indian Territory (modern-day Oklahoma), Native American nations were drawn into the war. Many Cherokee, Creek, and other tribes had aligned with the Confederacy, but internal divisions led to conflicts among Native factions. The Battle of Honey Springs (July 1863) became a pivotal engagement in the region, showcasing the war’s reach into diverse and often overlooked areas.

The Shift to Total War and the War’s Unchecked Expansion

As 1862 progressed, it became clear that the war had outgrown its initial boundaries. No longer confined to traditional battlefields, the conflict spilled into civilian life, affecting agriculture, trade, and infrastructure. The Union, recognizing the need for a more aggressive approach, began targeting Confederate supply lines, railroads, and economic resources, leading to the devastation of Southern towns and farmlands.

The war’s expansion was not just geographic but ideological. With the issuance of the Emancipation Proclamation on January 1, 1863, Lincoln transformed the war into a fight against slavery, ensuring that it would be fought with even greater intensity. The conflict that had begun as a dispute over secession had now evolved into a battle over the very future of the United States.

The Battle of Antietam and Stonewall Jackson’s Invasion of Maryland

The Battle of Antietam, fought on September 17, 1862, was a pivotal moment in the American Civil War, marking the bloodiest single day in U.S. history. It was the culmination of General Robert E. Lee’s first invasion of the North, an ambitious campaign that sought to shift the war’s momentum in favor of the Confederacy. One of Lee’s key commanders, General Thomas “Stonewall” Jackson, played a crucial role in the invasion, executing a daring plan to capture the Union stronghold at Harpers Ferry. The events leading up to and following Antietam would have profound consequences for the war, shaping military strategy, diplomacy, and the political landscape of the Union and Confederacy.

Stonewall Jackson’s Invasion of Maryland and the Capture of Harpers Ferry

After a series of Confederate victories in the summer of 1862, including the Second Battle of Bull Run (Manassas), Lee decided to take the war northward into Maryland. His objectives were threefold: secure supplies, rally Confederate sympathizers in the border state, and pressure the Union into peace negotiations or foreign recognition of the Confederacy. This invasion, known as the Maryland Campaign, was Lee’s first major attempt to shift the war beyond the South.

As part of Lee’s strategy, Stonewall Jackson was tasked with capturing Harpers Ferry, a vital Union arsenal town in western Virginia (modern-day West Virginia). Harpers Ferry controlled key railroads and supply lines along the Potomac River, making it an essential target for the Confederacy. Jackson’s forces conducted a rapid siege, strategically positioning artillery on the surrounding high ground. On September 15, 1862, Jackson’s troops forced the largest surrender of Union forces in the Civil War up to that point, capturing nearly 12,500 Federal troops and securing much-needed supplies. After his success, Jackson rushed his forces to reunite with Lee near Sharpsburg, Maryland, where the Union army under General George B. McClellan was preparing to challenge the Confederate invasion.

The Battle of Antietam: The Bloodiest Day in American History

On September 17, 1862, Lee’s army, positioned along Antietam Creek near Sharpsburg, Maryland, faced a much larger Union force under McClellan. Despite being outnumbered, Lee held his ground, determined to make a stand before retreating to Virginia. The battle unfolded in three distinct phases, each marked by intense and bloody combat.

1. The Cornfield and the Morning Attack

At dawn, Union General Joseph Hooker’s troops launched an assault on the Confederate left flank, where Stonewall Jackson’s men held their position in a 30-acre cornfield. The fighting in this sector was chaotic, as both sides exchanged heavy musket and artillery fire. The cornfield changed hands multiple times, and casualties soared, with thousands of men falling in the first few hours alone.

2. The Bloody Lane: A Confederate Stronghold

By mid-morning, Union forces under General Edwin Sumner and General William French targeted the Confederate center, where General D.H. Hill’s men had entrenched themselves in an old sunken road. This position, later known as "Bloody Lane," became a killing field. For over three hours, waves of Union troops attacked, eventually breaking through the Confederate line. However, McClellan’s hesitation prevented the Union from capitalizing on the breach, allowing Lee to stabilize his defenses.

3. Burnside’s Bridge and the Final Assault

On the Confederate right flank, General Ambrose Burnside’s troops attempted to cross a narrow stone bridge over Antietam Creek, heavily defended by General Robert Toombs’ Georgians. The Union suffered heavy casualties in repeated attempts to seize the bridge, but by mid-afternoon, they finally succeeded. As Burnside’s men advanced toward Sharpsburg, Confederate reinforcements led by A.P. Hill, arriving from Harpers Ferry, launched a devastating counterattack, pushing the Union back and preventing a complete Confederate collapse.

Aftermath and Consequences of Antietam

By nightfall, the battlefield was littered with over 22,000 casualties, making Antietam the bloodiest single day in American history. Despite the staggering losses, neither side achieved a decisive victory. However, Lee’s forces, exhausted and outnumbered, withdrew back to Virginia on September 18, marking the end of his Maryland invasion. McClellan, despite his numerical advantage, failed to pursue and destroy Lee’s army, frustrating President Abraham Lincoln. Antietam had several significant consequences:

Strategic Impact: The battle halted Lee’s northern invasion and prevented the Confederacy from gaining momentum. It also demonstrated the vulnerability of the South when taking the war beyond its borders.
The Emancipation Proclamation: Lincoln, using the battle as a political turning point, issued the preliminary Emancipation Proclamation on September 22, 1862. This transformed the war from a fight to restore the Union into a struggle for freedom, discouraging Britain and France from recognizing the Confederacy.
McClellan’s Dismissal: Frustrated by McClellan’s reluctance to pursue Lee aggressively, Lincoln removed him from command in November 1862, replacing him with General Ambrose Burnside.
A War of Attrition: Antietam reinforced the brutal reality of the Civil War, signaling that the conflict would not be resolved quickly. The staggering casualties on both sides underscored the shift toward a war of attrition, where overwhelming numbers and resources would ultimately determine victory.

A Pivotal Moment in the War

The Battle of Antietam and Stonewall Jackson’s role in the Maryland Campaign were defining moments in the Civil War. While Lee’s ambitious invasion ended in retreat, the campaign demonstrated the resilience of Confederate forces and their ability to take the fight to the North. At the same time, the Union’s ability to repel the invasion gave Lincoln the political momentum to shift the war’s focus toward abolition. The battle’s legacy extended far beyond the battlefield, reshaping the course of the Civil War and the future of the United States.

The Bloodiest Day in American History: A Step Towards Emancipation

On September 17, 1862, the Battle of Antietam became the bloodiest single day in American history, with over 22,000 casualties. Fought near Sharpsburg, Maryland, the battle saw Union forces under General George McClellan clashing with Confederate forces led by General Robert E. Lee. While the battle was technically a stalemate, it halted Lee’s invasion of the North, giving President Abraham Lincoln the victory he needed to take a decisive political step—issuing the Emancipation Proclamation.

Lincoln Needed a Union Victory

Before issuing the Emancipation Proclamation, Lincoln hesitated. He understood that making slavery the central issue of the war could alienate border states like Kentucky, Missouri, and Maryland, which still had enslaved people but remained in the Union. Additionally, he feared that without a major military success, the proclamation might appear as a desperate measure, lacking credibility and weakening support for the war effort. The Union’s strategic success at Antietam provided the opportunity he had been waiting for.

Preventing European Recognition of the Confederacy

At the time, both Britain and France were considering whether to recognize the Confederacy as an independent nation. Such recognition could have brought diplomatic and even military support to the South. However, if the war shifted from merely preserving the Union to an anti-slavery crusade, European nations—especially Britain, which had abolished slavery decades earlier—would find it difficult to justify supporting the Confederacy. Lincoln understood that by redefining the war as a fight against slavery, he could prevent European intervention on behalf of the South.

The Proclamation’s Timing

Just five days after Antietam, on September 22, 1862, Lincoln issued the preliminary Emancipation Proclamation. This document warned the Confederacy that if they did not return to the Union by January 1, 1863, their enslaved people would be declared free. The Confederacy ignored the warning, and on the first day of the new year, Lincoln followed through, officially signing the Emancipation Proclamation. While the proclamation did not immediately free all enslaved people, it changed the moral and political stakes of the war, ensuring that Union victory would mean an end to slavery.

Changing the Purpose of the War

Before Antietam, the war had primarily been about preserving the Union. With the Emancipation Proclamation, it became a fight for human freedom. The proclamation energized abolitionists, weakened the South’s labor force, and paved the way for Black soldiers to join the Union Army, strengthening its ranks. Ultimately, it ensured that slavery would not survive the war’s end, leading to the passage of the 13th Amendment in 1865, which abolished slavery in the United States.

The Battle of Antietam was a turning point in the American Civil War, not just for military reasons but for its profound political and social consequences. Without a Union victory at Antietam, Lincoln might not have been able to issue the Emancipation Proclamation when he did. The battle transformed the war, ensuring that the fight was not just about saving the Union, but also about ending slavery. In doing so, Antietam played a crucial role in reshaping the United States and its future.

Lincoln’s Evolving Views on Slavery

Abraham Lincoln’s views on slavery evolved significantly throughout his political career, particularly during his presidency. Though personally opposed to slavery, his early political stance was focused on preventing its expansion rather than advocating for immediate abolition. However, as the Civil War progressed, Lincoln’s position shifted from viewing slavery as a political issue to recognizing it as a moral and military necessity that had to be eradicated. His transformation culminated in the Emancipation Proclamation and his advocacy for the Thirteenth Amendment, permanently ending slavery in the United States.

Lincoln’s Early Political Stance on Slavery

Before becoming president, Lincoln’s position on slavery was shaped by the political climate of the time. As a young legislator in Illinois, he publicly opposed slavery on moral grounds but believed it was protected by the Constitution where it already existed. His primary concern was preventing its expansion into new U.S. territories, fearing that slavery’s growth would undermine democratic ideals and give the South unchecked power.

During his 1858 debates with Stephen Douglas, Lincoln clearly stated:

“I am naturally anti-slavery. If slavery is not wrong, nothing is wrong.”

However, he reassured Southerners that he had no intention of interfering with slavery in states where it was already established. His main political argument was that slavery should be contained and put on the path to gradual extinction rather than abolished outright.

Lincoln’s Presidential Election and Early Approach to Slavery

When Lincoln was elected in 1860, the Southern states saw his victory as a direct threat to slavery and seceded from the Union. Even though Lincoln repeatedly stated he had no plans to abolish slavery outright, his election signaled a shift in national politics that the South refused to accept.

As the Civil War began in April 1861, Lincoln’s primary goal was preserving the Union, not ending slavery. He feared that taking immediate action against slavery would drive border states like Kentucky, Missouri, and Maryland into joining the Confederacy, making it even harder to win the war. In an attempt to reassure these states, Lincoln stated in August 1862:

“If I could save the Union without freeing any slave, I would do it; and if I could save it by freeing all the slaves, I would do it; and if I could save it by freeing some and leaving others alone, I would also do that.”

This statement made it clear that, at the time, Lincoln saw slavery as a secondary issue to saving the Union.

The Shift: From Political Strategy to Moral Cause

As the war progressed, Lincoln began to see slavery as a fundamental cause of the conflict that had to be confronted. He recognized that slavery gave the Confederacy economic and military strength, as enslaved people provided labor for Southern industries and armies. He also faced increasing pressure from abolitionists, Radical Republicans, and formerly enslaved people to make the war about ending slavery.

The turning point came after the Battle of Antietam (September 17, 1862), which gave the Union a much-needed military victory. On September 22, 1862, Lincoln issued the preliminary Emancipation Proclamation, warning that if the Southern states did not surrender, all enslaved people in Confederate-controlled territories would be declared free on January 1, 1863.

The Emancipation Proclamation, while limited in scope, marked a major shift in Lincoln’s views and policies. It did not immediately free all enslaved people but made the war officially about ending slavery, preventing Britain and France from supporting the Confederacy. It also encouraged Black men to enlist in the Union Army, strengthening Northern forces and giving African Americans a direct stake in the war.

Lincoln and the Push for the Thirteenth Amendment

By 1864, Lincoln had fully embraced the goal of abolishing slavery nationwide. He recognized that the Emancipation Proclamation was a temporary wartime measure and that a constitutional amendment was necessary to permanently end slavery.

In early 1865, Lincoln lobbied Congress to pass the Thirteenth Amendment, which would ban slavery in all U.S. states and territories. Despite strong opposition, the amendment passed Congress on January 31, 1865, and was ratified later that year, after Lincoln’s assassination.

Lincoln’s Legacy on Slavery

Abraham Lincoln’s evolution from a moderate opponent of slavery to the president who abolished it was shaped by the Civil War’s realities. While he initially prioritized preserving the Union, he came to see ending slavery as essential to winning the war and securing the nation’s future. His leadership in issuing the Emancipation Proclamation and pushing for the Thirteenth Amendment cemented his legacy as the Great Emancipator, even though he had once been hesitant to take bold action against slavery.

The Emancipation Proclamation: A Turning Point in the Civil War

The Emancipation Proclamation, issued by President Abraham Lincoln on September 22, 1862, and taking effect on January 1, 1863, was one of the most significant executive orders in American history. While it did not immediately free all enslaved people, it redefined the Civil War as a fight against slavery and set the stage for the eventual abolition of slavery in the United States. Lincoln’s motivations for issuing the proclamation were moral, political, and military, each playing a crucial role in shaping his decision.

Lincoln’s Moral Reasons: A Personal Opposition to Slavery

From the early days of his political career, Lincoln personally opposed slavery, believing it to be morally wrong and incompatible with the principles of the Declaration of Independence. However, he initially prioritized preserving the Union over immediate abolition. His stance was evident in his 1858 debates with Stephen Douglas, where he stated:

“If slavery is not wrong, nothing is wrong.”

Despite this belief, Lincoln also acknowledged that slavery was legally protected in the Southern states under the Constitution, and as president, he had no constitutional authority to abolish it outright. However, as the war dragged on, he came to see abolition as not only a moral imperative but a necessary step toward victory.

Lincoln’s decision to issue the Emancipation Proclamation was a reflection of his growing belief that slavery had to be eradicated for the Union to be truly restored. By turning the war into a fight for freedom, Lincoln aligned the Union’s cause with the ideals of liberty and justice, making it clear that slavery would not survive a Union victory.

Political Reasons: Preventing European Support for the Confederacy

One of Lincoln’s biggest concerns was foreign intervention in the war, particularly from Britain and France, which had strong economic ties to the Confederacy due to their reliance on Southern cotton exports. Although both nations had abolished slavery years earlier, they were considering recognizing the Confederate States of America as an independent nation.

By issuing the Emancipation Proclamation, Lincoln effectively made slavery the central issue of the war, making it politically impossible for Britain and France—both strong opponents of slavery—to openly support the Confederacy. The proclamation reframed the war as a fight against human bondage, making it unacceptable for European nations to back a government that was defending slavery.

This strategic move isolated the Confederacy diplomatically, cutting off potential foreign aid and further weakening the Southern war effort.

Military Reasons: Undermining the Southern Economy and Boosting Union Manpower

Beyond moral and political motivations, Lincoln also saw the Emancipation Proclamation as a powerful military strategy. The Confederacy relied heavily on enslaved labor to support its war effort. Enslaved people worked in fields, built fortifications, transported supplies, and even served as laborers for the Confederate Army. By declaring them free, Lincoln encouraged enslaved people in Confederate states to flee or resist, disrupting the Southern economy and weakening its war capabilities.

Furthermore, the proclamation opened the door for Black men to enlist in the Union Army, providing a critical boost in manpower. By the end of the war, nearly 200,000 Black soldiers and sailors had served in the Union forces, playing a decisive role in the North’s victory. Their participation not only strengthened the Union military but also proved the courage and capability of African American soldiers, helping to shift public opinion toward full emancipation.

Limitations of the Emancipation Proclamation

While the Emancipation Proclamation was groundbreaking, it had significant limitations. It only applied to enslaved people in Confederate-controlled territories, meaning that slavery remained legal in border states like Kentucky, Missouri, Maryland, and Delaware, which were still loyal to the Union. Additionally, it did not immediately free enslaved people in Confederate areas, as the Union had to win battles and take control of Southern territory for the proclamation to take effect.

However, despite these limitations, the proclamation laid the foundation for the eventual abolition of slavery, leading to the passage of the Thirteenth Amendment in 1865, which permanently outlawed slavery in the United States.

A Defining Moment in American History

The Emancipation Proclamation was a bold and transformative step in American history. It reflected Lincoln’s moral opposition to slavery, served as a political maneuver to prevent foreign intervention, and provided a military advantage by undermining the Southern economy and increasing Union manpower. While it did not immediately end slavery, it changed the purpose of the Civil War, ensuring that a Union victory would mean the end of slavery in America.

The Emancipation Proclamation and the Role of Congress

The Emancipation Proclamation, issued by President Abraham Lincoln on September 22, 1862, and taking effect on January 1, 1863, was a landmark moment in American history, transforming the Civil War from a conflict over preserving the Union into a fight for the abolition of slavery. However, the proclamation did not automatically make the abolition of slavery a permanent law in the United States. While it declared freedom for enslaved people in Confederate-controlled territories, it did not outlaw slavery nationwide. For the Emancipation Proclamation to become permanent law, Congress had to take additional legislative action.

The Emancipation Proclamation: An Executive War Measure

Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation as an executive order, using his authority as Commander-in-Chief of the Union Army under the Constitution. Because it was a wartime measure, the proclamation applied only to states in rebellion (the Confederacy), meaning it did not free enslaved people in border states like Kentucky, Missouri, Maryland, and Delaware, which remained loyal to the Union.

Additionally, as an executive order, the Emancipation Proclamation was not a law passed by Congress and could have been reversed by a future president or declared unconstitutional by the courts. This meant that if the Union won the war, slavery could technically still exist in parts of the country unless it was abolished through legislation or a constitutional amendment.

Congressional Action: Steps Toward Permanent Abolition

Recognizing the limitations of the Emancipation Proclamation, Lincoln and his allies in Congress began working toward a permanent legal abolition of slavery. Several legislative actions were necessary to secure this goal:

1. The Confiscation Acts (1861–1862)

Before the Emancipation Proclamation, Congress had already passed laws aimed at weakening slavery in Confederate states:

The First Confiscation Act (1861) allowed the Union to seize enslaved people being used for military purposes in the Confederacy.
The Second Confiscation Act (1862) declared that enslaved people held by Confederates were to be "forever free", laying the groundwork for Lincoln’s proclamation.

While these acts helped undermine slavery, they did not abolish it entirely, nor did they establish freedom as a constitutional right.

2. The Thirteenth Amendment: Making Emancipation Law

To permanently end slavery in all states, Congress needed to pass a constitutional amendment. In 1864, Lincoln and Republican abolitionists in Congress pushed for the Thirteenth Amendment, which stated:

“Neither slavery nor involuntary servitude, except as a punishment for crime whereof the party shall have been duly convicted, shall exist within the United States, or any place subject to their jurisdiction.”

However, the first attempt to pass the amendment failed in the House of Representatives in June 1864, as many Democratic lawmakers opposed abolition. Lincoln redoubled his efforts, using political persuasion, patronage, and pressure to gain the necessary votes. On January 31, 1865, the House finally passed the Thirteenth Amendment, and it was ratified by the states on December 6, 1865—officially making slavery illegal in the United States.

The Role of Congress in Making Emancipation Permanent

Congress played a crucial role in turning Lincoln’s wartime executive order into permanent law. While the Emancipation Proclamation helped pave the way for abolition, Congress had to:

Pass the Thirteenth Amendment, making slavery illegal in all states.
Ratify the amendment through the states, ensuring broad national acceptance.
Establish federal laws to protect the rights of newly freed African Americans.

Without these legislative steps, the Emancipation Proclamation alone would not have ended slavery nationwide, and it could have been overturned after the war.

Lincoln’s Proclamation and Congressional Action

The Emancipation Proclamation was a powerful step toward abolition, but it did not automatically make slavery illegal across the entire country. Congress had to take deliberate legislative action, culminating in the Thirteenth Amendment, to ensure that slavery was permanently abolished. This amendment remains one of the most significant legislative achievements in American history, ensuring that freedom was no longer dependent on a wartime order but enshrined in the U.S. Constitution.

Watch Night: Waiting for Freedom

The night was cold, but the small wooden church was overflowing with warmth. The air inside was thick with the scent of kerosene lamps and the quiet rustling of skirts and coats as men, women, and children packed the pews, their faces tense with anticipation. It was December 31, 1862, and across the country, in churches, homes, and gathering places, thousands of enslaved and free African Americans huddled together, waiting.

They called it Watch Night—a night of prayer, of hope, and of anxious expectation. In just a few short hours, the Emancipation Proclamation would take effect, and for those in the South under Confederate control, the dawn of a new year would bring the promise of freedom.

The Church of Waiting Souls

In a small meetinghouse in South Carolina, the congregation sat in near silence. A minister, an elderly man with gray at his temples and fire in his voice, stood before them, Bible in hand. His words were not sermons of caution but of prophecy, the same words that had been spoken in secret for so long.

"The Lord has sent Moses to Pharaoh before, and tonight He sends Lincoln to the slave masters. The yoke is breaking, brothers and sisters. Tonight, we watch for freedom."

A woman in the front row, worn with years of labor on a cotton plantation, clutched her son’s hand, pressing her palm against his tiny fingers as if she could shield him from the weight of history. Her husband had been sold away five years earlier, and tonight, she prayed for a miracle—that somehow, with the dawn, he too would hear the word that freedom had come.

A Moment Suspended in Time

All across the South, enslaved people whispered in hushed voices, afraid to hope too much. Many had heard rumors of freedom before, and each time, it had been a cruel illusion. But this time, something felt different.

In Maryland, a group of runaways hiding in the woods listened as an elderly man, a preacher among them, lifted his voice in a slow, trembling song:

“Go down, Moses, way down in Egypt’s land,Tell old Pharaoh, let my people go.”

One by one, voices joined in, their song swelling into the night. Even those who feared they might never see true freedom sang—because even if freedom did not reach them, it would reach their children.

The Midnight Hour

Back in the tiny church, a clock on the wall ticked toward midnight, each second stretching endlessly. Some had begun to weep quietly, rocking back and forth, whispering prayers.

And then—it happened.

The church bells began to ring. The doors burst open, and a young man, breathless, shouted:

“It’s time! The Proclamation is real! Lincoln has signed it! We are free!”

For a moment, no one moved. The words hung in the air, fragile, as if speaking too loudly might break the spell. Then, as the truth sank in, a cry of joy erupted—a cry so deep and raw that it seemed to shake the very walls of the church.

Men fell to their knees, praising God. Women clutched their children, sobbing with joy. Some danced, others sang, and some simply stood still, their hands over their mouths, stunned that the moment had finally come.

Freedom's Dawn

As dawn crept over the horizon, a mother took her child’s hand and led him outside. She knelt in the dirt and pressed her palm into the earth.

"Remember this," she told him, "because today, we walk as free people."

And as the sun rose over the fields where so many had toiled in chains, they stood together, not just as survivors—but as the first generation of the newly free.

Harriet Tubman and the Dawn of Freedom in South Carolina

The Combahee River stretched out like a dark ribbon under the moonlight, its waters glistening as the night wind whispered through the Spanish moss. The Union gunboats sat still in the water, their black hulls blending into the shadows of the riverbanks. Onboard, Harriet Tubman stood tall and unshaken, her eyes fixed on the shore. Tonight was the night.

For months, she had planned this raid, working alongside Union officers and Black soldiers. Now, in the early hours of June 2, 1863, she was about to lead one of the largest mass liberations of enslaved people in American history.

She adjusted the wide-brimmed hat on her head and turned to the men behind her—soldiers of the Second South Carolina Volunteer Infantry, an all-Black Union regiment. Their faces were solemn, their rifles loaded. Many of them had once been enslaved themselves. Tonight, they had returned as free men, as warriors, as liberators.

The Journey into the Heart of Slavery

Harriet had spent weeks gathering intelligence from enslaved people in the area. She had learned where the Confederate supply depots were hidden, where the land was dry enough for an escape, and most importantly—where the enslaved people were waiting.

The Union officers who had agreed to this mission—Colonel James Montgomery chief among them—had come to trust her instincts and her knowledge of the land. Harriet was more than just a scout; she was a leader, a strategist, and a beacon of hope for those still in bondage.

As the boats drifted closer to the shore, she whispered to the men, “Steady now.”

Then, with a signal, the Union soldiers disembarked in silence, their boots sinking into the soft mud of the riverbank.

The Fires of Liberation

The Confederate overseers and plantation guards never saw it coming. Within minutes, gunshots cracked through the night, and the Union forces stormed the Combahee plantations. Slaveholders fled into the darkness, Confederate supplies were set ablaze, and the chains of slavery—both literal and symbolic—began to shatter.

Harriet led the way, racing from cabin to cabin, whispering to those inside:

“Come now, the Lord has opened the way! Follow me to the river!”

At first, some hesitated. Could this be real? Could they trust this woman with the strong voice and the burning eyes? But then they saw the gunboats, saw the Black Union soldiers, saw the flames consuming the tools of their oppression—and they ran.

Mothers clutched babies to their chests, fathers grabbed the hands of their children, and the elderly—many of whom had thought they would die in bondage—lifted their weary feet and walked toward freedom.

Some sang as they ran, their voices trembling but full of power:

“Go down, Moses, way down in Egypt’s land,Tell old Pharaoh, let my people go.”

A New Day, A New Life

The soldiers helped them onto the boats, lifting children, guiding the weak, carrying those too frail to walk. Over 700 men, women, and children climbed aboard the Union vessels, their eyes wide, their hands trembling as they looked back at the burning plantations they would never see again.

As the gunboats pushed away from the shore, Harriet stood at the bow, watching the flames dance against the horizon. She thought of the countless others still in bondage, of the suffering she had seen, the lives stolen, the families torn apart.

But tonight was victory. Tonight, they had broken the chains. A young woman, barely more than sixteen, approached her, clutching the hand of her little brother. Her voice was shaky as she whispered, “Are we free now?”

Harriet knelt down and took her hands, looking into the girl’s wide, searching eyes.

“Yes, child. You are free. And no man can take that from you again.”

The girl let out a small, disbelieving cry, and Harriet pulled her close. All around them, families wept, embraced, prayed in the moonlight, and whispered to one another:

“Free at last.”

The Legacy of the Raid

Harriet Tubman’s Combahee River Raid was a triumph of intelligence, strategy, and courage. She had led more people to freedom in a single night than most Underground Railroad conductors had in a lifetime. For the Union Army, it was a military success, crippling Confederate supplies and weakening their hold on South Carolina.

But for Harriet and the 700 souls she helped liberate, it was something more. It was proof that freedom was not just a dream. It was a promise kept. It was the beginning of a new world.

And as the gunboats sailed into the safety of Union-held territory, Harriet Tubman stood tall, the wind tugging at her coat, knowing that her mission was far from over. She would keep fighting. She would keep leading. And she would never stop until every last soul was free.

Frederick Douglass and His Sons: A Father’s Fight for Freedom

The candle burned low in the corner of the small, cluttered study, casting long shadows across the walls. Frederick Douglass sat at his desk, his broad hands folded tightly together. The letter from Washington lay before him, the ink still fresh, the words carrying the weight of a moment he had waited a lifetime to see. He had read it twice already. Yet, he leaned forward, staring at the words again, his mind racing.

The Emancipation Proclamation.

President Abraham Lincoln had signed it at last. It was the morning of January 1, 1863, and across the country, people—Black and white, free and enslaved—waited.

For years, Douglass had pushed Lincoln to take action, writing fiery editorials, giving speeches in halls packed with abolitionists and skeptics alike. Slavery was the poison of the nation, and though the war raged on, Douglass had long feared that the Union was not truly committed to eradicating it.

But now, as the news spread like wildfire, as church bells rang across the North, as freedmen and women knelt in prayer across the South, the war had a new purpose.

His hands trembled slightly as he ran them over the parchment. "All persons held as slaves within any State... shall be then, thenceforward, and forever free."

Douglass exhaled. The words were powerful, but he knew better than anyone that words alone would not win this fight.

A Conversation at the Hearth

A knock at the door pulled him from his thoughts. Before he could rise, the door creaked open, and his two eldest sons, Lewis and Charles, stepped inside. “Father?” Lewis, the eldest, stepped forward cautiously. “You’ve seen the news?”

Frederick stood, his sharp eyes flickering over his sons. Young men now—strong, full of fire, carrying his blood and his convictions. “Yes,” he said simply, watching as they exchanged glances. He knew why they had come.

Lewis took a breath. “We’re going to enlist.” Frederick closed his eyes for a moment. He had always known this day would come.

A Father’s Fear, A Leader’s Duty

“You know what they’ll say,” Douglass said, his voice low but firm. “They’ll send you to the worst conditions. They won’t give you equal pay. They’ll throw you to the front lines like cannon fodder. You know this.”

Charles, younger but no less determined, straightened his back. “We know,” he said. “But how can we not fight for what we’ve always believed in?”

Frederick felt a deep pride stir in his chest, warring with the fear clawing at him. How many times had he stood on a podium, declaring that Black men must take up arms to prove their right to citizenship?

Now, his own sons would be the ones to do it. “This war isn’t just about politics anymore,” Lewis added. “It’s about us, about our people. If we don’t stand up now, when will we?”

Frederick studied them both for a long moment, the fire from the hearth casting flickering gold in their eyes. Finally, he nodded. “If you must go,” he said, his voice heavy with the weight of a father’s love, “then go and be men.”

The Fight for Freedom

Months later, as the 54th Massachusetts Infantry Regiment—one of the first all-Black Union units—marched into history, Frederick Douglass stood among the crowd. His sons had kept their word. They had fought, bled, and endured for the freedom of their people.

Lewis and Charles had seen battle, had faced the prejudice of their own comrades and the violence of the enemy. And yet, they fought on. Because the Emancipation Proclamation was not the end—it was only the beginning.

Douglass, standing among the people who once called him a slave, lifted his head high. Lincoln had signed the order. But it would be men like his sons who would make freedom a reality.

The Day Freedom Was Spoken

The hot Southern sun beat down on the small plantation as the Union soldiers rode in, their blue coats dusted with the dirt of long marches. The sky was vast and cloudless, the air heavy with the scent of earth and cotton. It was a day that looked like any other.

But this was not just another day.

This was January 1, 1863—and the world was about to change.

A Mission of Words

Sergeant William Carter, a Union soldier from Pennsylvania, dismounted his horse and wiped the sweat from his brow. In his satchel, folded neatly among his personal letters and orders, was a copy of the Emancipation Proclamation—a document signed by President Abraham Lincoln that declared all enslaved people in the rebelling Confederate states to be free.

Carter had seen the devastation of war, the suffering of men, but this—this was different. Today, he was not carrying a rifle, but a message.

A message of freedom.

As he approached the cabins at the edge of the fields, he saw them—men, women, and children pausing in their work, looking up, their hands stiff from labor, their faces guarded with cautious curiosity. A group of elderly men stood near the porch of a weathered cabin, watching the approaching Union troops in silence.

No one spoke at first. The memory of past betrayals lingered in their eyes.

But Carter lifted the paper from his satchel, cleared his throat, and spoke.

"By order of President Abraham Lincoln, as of this day, all those held as slaves in the Confederate states are free."

A Silence Like Thunder

At first, no one moved. The words hung in the humid air, heavy, unreal, impossible. A young woman, no older than twenty, clutched the small child at her side. An elderly man, his back curved from decades of toil, straightened, gripping his cane.

One of the men shook his head slowly. “What you sayin’, soldier?”

Carter swallowed hard, his voice steady but thick with emotion. “You are free.”

“Free?” someone whispered.

A child, barefoot and wide-eyed, looked up at his mother. “What that mean, Mama?”

The woman pressed her fingers to her lips, as though she could somehow hold back the emotion rising in her chest. She sank to her knees, pulling the boy close. “It means we ain’t got no master no more.”

The Cry of the Free

A low murmur rippled through the gathered people, disbelief and hope colliding all at once. And then—a sound rose. A deep, shuddering cry from an old woman, her hands lifting toward the sky, her voice cracking: “Thank you, Jesus! Thank you, Lord!” The dam broke.

A man fell to his knees, tears streaking his dust-covered face. A mother clutched her baby to her chest, rocking and sobbing. One by one, they lifted their voices—some praying, some singing, some weeping, some simply standing still, trying to grasp what had just happened.

Carter felt his own throat tighten as he watched them. He had fought in battles, seen blood, heard the cannons thunder. But this—this moment—was the most powerful thing he had ever witnessed.

A New Beginning

A young man, perhaps no older than sixteen, stepped forward, his hands clenched into fists. “So what we do now?”

Carter looked at him—looked at all of them. Their lives had been changed in an instant, yet so many questions remained. But for the first time, they had the power to answer those questions for themselves.

"You live," Carter said simply. "As free men and women."

The young man nodded, staring out at the fields where his ancestors had worked under chains. Today, the chains were broken. He turned, looked at his family, then back at Carter. His lips quivered—then he smiled. “We free.”

And with that, the first steps into freedom were taken.

The Legacy of That Day

Across the South, similar scenes unfolded—Union soldiers delivering the words of freedom, watching as enslaved people heard, disbelieved, and then rejoiced. The Emancipation Proclamation did not immediately end slavery everywhere, but on this day, the tide turned.

And for those who heard freedom spoken for the first time, the sound of that moment echoed through generations—a cry that had been silenced for too long, now finally let loose into the world. The cry of the free.

Key Figures in the Emancipation Proclamation and the Congressional Push

The Emancipation Proclamation and the eventual passage of the 13th Amendment were defining moments in American history, ending slavery in the United States. While Abraham Lincoln was the central figure in these events, many others played critical roles in shaping and implementing emancipation. From politicians to abolitionists, men and women worked to make the end of slavery a reality.

Abraham Lincoln (1809–1865) – The President Who Issued the Emancipation Proclamation

As the 16th President of the United States, Abraham Lincoln is most famously known for issuing the Emancipation Proclamation on January 1, 1863. Lincoln had long held moral opposition to slavery, but as president, he had to balance political considerations. The Battle of Antietam gave him the opportunity to declare that enslaved people in Confederate-held territory were free. However, Lincoln knew that a proclamation alone was not enough. He pushed for a constitutional amendment to abolish slavery entirely, leading to the passage of the 13th Amendment in 1865. His leadership ensured that the war was not only about preserving the Union but also about securing freedom for millions.

Frederick Douglass (1818–1895) – The Voice of Abolition

A formerly enslaved man turned abolitionist, writer, and orator, Frederick Douglass was a key advisor to Lincoln. He met with Lincoln multiple times, urging him to take a stronger stand against slavery. Douglass advocated for Black men to serve in the Union Army, arguing that their service would prove their right to citizenship. After the Emancipation Proclamation, he worked tirelessly to recruit Black soldiers, helping to establish the 54th Massachusetts Regiment, one of the first Black units in the Civil War.

Thaddeus Stevens (1792–1868) – The Radical Abolitionist in Congress

A fierce advocate for abolition and a leading Radical Republican in the House of Representatives, Thaddeus Stevens played a crucial role in passing the 13th Amendment. Stevens believed in full racial equality and fought for land redistribution to formerly enslaved people. He was instrumental in overcoming political resistance to emancipation in Congress. His powerful speeches and legislative strategies helped secure the votes needed to pass the amendment in 1865.

Charles Sumner (1811–1874) – The Senate’s Leading Abolitionist

A U.S. Senator from Massachusetts, Charles Sumner was one of the most outspoken opponents of slavery. He had previously been attacked on the Senate floor in 1856 for condemning pro-slavery forces. Sumner was instrumental in persuading Lincoln and Congress to pursue full abolition, not just wartime emancipation. He worked tirelessly to rally support for the 13th Amendment, ensuring its passage in the Senate.

Harriet Beecher Stowe (1811–1896) – The Woman Who Changed Minds

The author of Uncle Tom’s Cabin, Harriet Beecher Stowe helped shape public opinion against slavery. Her book, published in 1852, became an international bestseller, exposing the brutal realities of slavery to many Americans who had never witnessed it firsthand. Lincoln himself reportedly said to her, “So you’re the little lady who wrote the book that started this great war.” Though she did not directly participate in drafting policies, her influence helped create the moral outrage necessary for Lincoln and Congress to act.

Anna Dickinson (1842–1932) – The Young Orator for Emancipation

A powerful abolitionist speaker, Anna Dickinson was one of the few women who addressed political audiences during the Civil War. She toured the North, delivering fiery speeches in favor of emancipation and Union victory. Lincoln personally invited her to speak before Congress in 1864, making her one of the few women to have done so at that time. Her speeches influenced public support for the 13th Amendment.

Elizabeth Cady Stanton (1815–1902) – Linking Abolition to Women’s Rights

Though primarily known for her women’s rights activism, Elizabeth Cady Stanton was also a vocal abolitionist. She believed that the fight for Black emancipation and women's suffrage were linked. While many abolitionists turned away from women’s rights during the Civil War, Stanton continued advocating for equal rights for all Americans, helping keep emancipation at the forefront of national discussion.

Life Lessons and Thought Processes from the Emancipation Proclamation

The Emancipation Proclamation (1863) and the passage of the 13th Amendment (1865) were defining moments in American history, shaping not only the nation's legal framework but also its moral and social fabric. Studying these events offers valuable life lessons and insights into decision-making, leadership, perseverance, and justice. Below are some key lessons and thought processes that can be learned from these pivotal moments in history.

1. Moral Conviction Must Be Paired with Action

One of the strongest lessons from Lincoln’s approach to emancipation is that having strong beliefs is not enough—action is required to make real change. Lincoln personally opposed slavery for much of his life, but he initially hesitated to make it a central issue of the war. However, when the opportunity arose after the Battle of Antietam, he took decisive action with the Emancipation Proclamation.

Lesson: In life, it’s not enough to simply hold a moral stance; at some point, you must act on your principles, even if the timing is difficult or the consequences are uncertain.

2. Timing and Strategy Matter in Leadership

Lincoln didn’t rush to issue the Emancipation Proclamation; instead, he waited for a strategic moment—a Union victory at Antietam—to make his announcement. He understood that in politics, as in life, timing and careful execution are critical for success.

Lesson: Whether making personal, professional, or political decisions, strategic timing can influence the outcome. Acting too soon or too late can weaken your position, while waiting for the right moment can maximize impact.

3. Change Requires Persistence and Collaboration

Passing the 13th Amendment was not an easy task. While the Emancipation Proclamation weakened slavery in Confederate states, it took intense political maneuvering to secure enough votes in Congress to fully abolish slavery. Leaders like Thaddeus Stevens and Charles Sumner worked tirelessly to push the amendment forward, knowing that justice required effort and patience.

Lesson: Major change—whether social, political, or personal—does not happen overnight. Success requires persistence, the ability to negotiate, and the willingness to bring others on board to achieve a common goal.

4. Words Have the Power to Shape History

The Emancipation Proclamation and the 13th Amendment were not just legal documents; they were powerful statements of principle that reshaped national identity. Lincoln’s careful wording, Douglass’s persuasive speeches, and Garrison’s abolitionist writings all played a role in changing public perception and rallying support.

Lesson: Whether writing, speaking, or advocating for a cause, words hold incredible power. A well-crafted argument or speech can inspire movements and create lasting change.

5. Fear of Controversy Should Not Prevent Doing What Is Right

Lincoln faced immense political pressure from both sides—some believed he was moving too quickly toward abolition, while others criticized him for waiting too long. Yet he understood that history would judge him not by whether he pleased everyone, but by whether he did the right thing.

Lesson: In life, you will face criticism no matter what choices you make. If you know something is right, pursue it with courage rather than worrying about short-term disapproval.

Vocabulary to Learn While Studying about the Emancipation Proclamation

1. Emancipation

· Definition: The act of freeing someone from slavery or oppression.Sample Sentence: President Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation declared that enslaved people in Confederate states were free.

2. Proclamation

· Definition: A public or official announcement, often of great importance.Sample Sentence: The Emancipation Proclamation was a historic proclamation that changed the course of the Civil War.

3. Amendment

· Definition: A formal change or addition to a law or constitution.Sample Sentence: The 13th Amendment abolished slavery throughout the United States.

4. Abolition

· Definition: The act of officially ending a system, practice, or institution, especially slavery.Sample Sentence: The abolition of slavery in the U.S. was finalized with the passage of the 13th Amendment.

5. Executive Order

· Definition: A directive issued by a president or leader that has the force of law.Sample Sentence: The Emancipation Proclamation was an executive order issued by President Lincoln.

6. Segregation

· Definition: The enforced separation of different racial groups in a country or community.Sample Sentence: Even after slavery was abolished, many states enforced segregation through discriminatory laws.

7. Rebellion

· Definition: An act of resistance against a government or authority.Sample Sentence: The Southern states' decision to secede from the Union was considered a rebellion by the U.S. government.

8. Reconstruction

· Definition: The period after the Civil War when the Southern states were rebuilt and reintegrated into the Union.Sample Sentence: During Reconstruction, Congress passed laws to protect the rights of formerly enslaved people.

9. Citizenship

· Definition: The status of being a legally recognized member of a country, with rights and responsibilities.Sample Sentence: The 14th Amendment granted citizenship to all people born in the United States, including formerly enslaved individuals.

10. Freedmen

· Definition: Formerly enslaved people who were freed after the Civil War.Sample Sentence: Many freedmen struggled to find work and housing after the war ended.

Engaging Activities to Teach About the Emancipation Proclamation, 13th Amend.

Activity #1: Emancipation Proclamation Role-Play Debate

Recommended Age: Grades 7-12

Activity Description: In this activity, students will take on different historical roles, including President Lincoln, abolitionists, members of Congress, and even Confederate leaders, to debate the effects and implications of the Emancipation Proclamation.

Objective:

To understand different perspectives on the Emancipation Proclamation and its impact.
To improve critical thinking and persuasive speaking skills.

Materials:

Printed copies of the Emancipation Proclamation (simplified for younger students).
Character role cards (each student will receive a different historical figure).
Debate format guide.

Instructions:

Assign Roles: Give each student a role—such as Abraham Lincoln, Frederick Douglass, a Confederate leader, a Union general, or a formerly enslaved person.
Research & Prepare: Students should research their assigned figure and prepare arguments based on historical evidence.
Debate: Hold a structured debate where each student presents their position on the Emancipation Proclamation.
Reflection Discussion: After the debate, students discuss how the proclamation changed the war and what they learned from different viewpoints.

Learning Outcome:

Students will understand the complexity of historical decisions.
They will gain skills in public speaking, argumentation, and critical thinking.
They will recognize how different groups viewed emancipation differently.

Activity #2: Create a Freedom Newspaper (1865 Edition)

Recommended Age: Grades 6-10

Activity Description: Students will design a newspaper from 1865 announcing the passage of the 13th Amendment. They will write articles from different perspectives—such as newly freed individuals, political leaders, or everyday citizens.

Objective:

To understand the importance of the 13th Amendment.
To practice creative and historical writing.

Materials:

Blank paper or digital templates for a newspaper.
Pens, markers, or a computer with a word processor.
List of important figures and events surrounding the 13th Amendment.

Instructions:

Assign Roles: Each student picks a role—abolitionist writer, former slave, Union supporter, Southern citizen, etc.
Research & Write: They will write a short article (200-400 words) about the 13th Amendment’s impact from their character’s perspective.
Illustrate & Format: Encourage them to add period-style advertisements, editorials, and political cartoons.
Share & Discuss: Students will present their newspapers and discuss how different people reacted to the amendment.

Learning Outcome:

Students will understand how different people experienced emancipation.
They will practice historical empathy and writing skills.
They will recognize how newspapers shaped public opinion at the time.

Activity #3: Walking Through Freedom Timeline

Recommended Age: Grades 4-8

Activity Description: Students will physically arrange and walk through key moments from Lincoln’s presidency, the Emancipation Proclamation, and the passage of the 13th Amendment, acting out or explaining each event.

Objective:

To create an interactive learning experience that helps students visualize historical progress.
To show that freedom did not come instantly but through a series of steps.

Materials:

Timeline cards with key dates (e.g., 1860: Lincoln is elected, 1863: Emancipation Proclamation, 1865: 13th Amendment ratified).
Index cards for students to take notes.
Space to arrange and walk through the timeline.

Instructions:

Create a Timeline: Place cards around the classroom or outside with major events related to emancipation.
Assign Students to Events: Each student (or group) is responsible for explaining an event.
Walk Through History: As students move from one event to another, they explain how each moment led to the next.
Reflection Discussion: Discuss how changes happened gradually and why Lincoln and Congress had to navigate many challenges.