John Minor Wisdom: Dauntless Decision Maker

In this lesson, students will learn about how John Minor Wisdom courageously stood up against discrimination and segregation as a Circuit Court judge.

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 John Minor Wisdom’s role in the civil rights and anti-discrimination movements?
• What was Wisdom’s purpose in fighting against discriminatory practices?
• What actions did Wisdom take to fight discrimination?

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 analyze how John Minor Wisdom was courageous despite opposition to his beliefs.
• Students will evaluate Wisdom’s behavior and determine ways in which they can be courageous even if their beliefs are unpopular.
• Students will apply their knowledge of courage to their own lives.