Project: The American Slave Experience

Due: ______________________

Directions: Divide a large poster board into 4 equal size squares. In each square complete one of the following activities. Each square should have its own title, be word processed where appropriate, contain an illustration, and be neat and colorful.

Log on to American Slave Narratives and read at least three different slave narratives. Write an editorial describing the plight of slaves and giving reasons for the abolition of slave trading.
Research the life of Nat Turner and explain his reasons for his revolt. Research the life of John Brown. In what ways was John Brown like Nat Turner? Create a Venn diagram showing differences and similarities.
Research the life of John Newton, author of “Amazing Grace” and former captain of a slave ship. How does the song relate to slavery? Compare John Newton to the slave ship captain depicted in Roots.
Choose one of the following for your fourth box.

Log on to http://fisher.lib.virginia.edu/collections/stats/histcensus/ then make a chart comparing the slave populations in each southern state in 1860. Next rank the states according to percentages of slaves from lowest to highest.
Define the Compromise of 1820 and the Compromise of 1850. Next on a blank US map shade in and label the free states and slave states after these compromises.