Before and during the Civil War, Black people were fully engaged in the fight for their own freedom. In this unit, students will explore how many enslaved people and free Blacks – men, women, and children –
contributed to the fight for their freedom in numerous ways. Through the exploration of Document Sets (each inclusive of readings, primary sources, video, art, etc.), students can explore four particular areas of Black contributions and experiences in the fight for freedom, including: United States Colored Troops (USCT), Black Naval Service, Black Spies, and Black Women During the Civil War. As a culminating project, students will write and contribute to an 1864 issue of Frederick Douglass’s Paper, reflecting what they have learned.

For related themes/topics, see the lesson plan “North Carolina’s 35th USCT.”