The focus is on the Emancipation Proclamation as a military measure for ending the war. Early in the war, Lincoln moved cautiously on the issue of slavery. However, he changed his policy after the first year of fighting.
Directions Divide the class into groups of four to six students.
Have each group complete one of the following activities. Role play Lincoln and his cabinet working out a plan to issue the Emancipation Proclamation. After the role play, discuss the timing of public announcement of the proclamation. Write editorials and draw political cartoons expressing Northern and Southern viewpoints, stating pros or cons of the public, politicians and military leaders. Orally present your views to the class.