In the Service of the Country Preview
Students will be introduced to the City of Alexandria, Virginia, during the Civil War. Through analyzing maps, records, and images, students will discover the historical and geographical context that caused the city to become home to one of the first national cemeteries.
Fighting Side by Side Preview
Students will learn the story of one of the United States’ first civil rights actions, an 1864 United States Colored Troops’ petition to be buried in Alexandria National Cemetery. Students will use primary sources such as diaries, letters, and photographs to analyze bias and point of view.
A Sad and Terrible Disaster Preview
Students will uncover the fate of four men linked to the manhunt for John Wilkes Booth, President Lincoln’s assassin. Drawing on photographs and period newspapers, students will read multiple accounts and perspectives to place these mens’ story into historical context.
In the Spirit of Fraternity Preview
Students will explore the history behind the removal of Confederate war dead from Alexandria National Cemetery. Examining letters, political cartoons, newspapers, and speeches, students will consider changing attitudes about memorialization during Reconstruction and how the conversation continues today.
Before Rosie the Riveter Preview
Students will compare and contrast the memorialization of women and recognition of their military service from the Civil War to the present day. Students will learn about the change over time using letters, legislation, and photographs.