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Lesson

Oral Histories of Formerly Enslaved Individuals

Guiding question

What was the experience of formerly enslaved individuals during Reconstruction?

Grade
6–8
Published
Sep 4, 2025
A group of diverse individuals seated in a garden, with a man speaking to them while children sit nearby.
Explore the personal stories of formerly enslaved individuals and their experiences after the Civil War.

Founding Principles

Natural/Inalienable Rights

Guiding Questions

  • What was the experience of formerly enslaved individuals during Reconstruction?
  • How did Reconstruction impact the lives of formerly enslaved people and their families?

Objectives

  • Students will explore broad themes that defined the experience of Blacks living in the South during Reconstruction.

Materials

Resources

Student Resources:

Lesson Components

ActivityOral Histories of Formerly Enslaved Individuals Reconstruction Middle School Primary Sources

Three stories of formerly enslaved individuals and their experiences after the Civil War.

Lesson plan

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Standards

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Related materials

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