Bertrand DeBlanc’s Pursuit of Justice

In this lesson, students will learn about the case of the trial and execution of Willie Francis, and will analyze the determined efforts of his attorney, Bertrand DeBlanc, to protect due process for Francis.

Walk-In-The-Shoes Questions
As you read, imagine you are the protagonist.

• What challenges are you facing?
• What fears or concerns might you have?
• What may prevent you from acting in the way you ought?

Observation Questions

• What was Bertrand DeBlanc’s role in the case of Willie Francis? How was DeBlanc’s effort important?
• What was Bertrand DeBlanc’s purpose in taking the case of Willie Francis?
• Why did DeBlanc think it was important to challenge Louisiana’s procedures?

Discussion Questions
Discuss the following questions with your students.

• What is the historical context of the narrative?
• What historical circumstances presented a challenge to the protagonist?
• How and why did the individual exhibit a moral and/or civic virtue in facing and overcoming the challenge?
• How did the exercise of the virtue benefit civil society?
• How might exercise of the virtue benefit the protagonist?
• What might the exercise of the virtue cost the protagonist?
• Would you react the same under similar circumstances? Why or why not?
• How can you act similarly in your own life? What obstacles must you overcome in order to do so?

• Students will examine Bertrand DeBlanc’s pursuit of justice for Willie Francis.
• Students will determine ways that they can promote justice in their actions.
• Students will apply their knowledge of justice to their own lives.