A lesson covering the secession of the Southern states, the formation of the Confederacy, and the opening battle of the Civil War at Fort Sumter. Students will explore the causes of the split and sequence the events that led to the bombardment.

A lesson examining the expansion of the United States in the 1850s and the growing conflict over whether new territories should allow slavery. Students will explore how westward expansion pushed the country toward a breaking point.

A lesson exploring the various forms of rebellion against slavery, including John Brown's raid at Harpers Ferry, Nat Turner's revolt, and Denmark Vesey's planned uprising. Students will learn about the risks taken by those fighting for freedom and the different ways people fought back against the plantation system.