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Lesson Plan
Curated OER

Decatur House

For Teachers 5th - 12th
Students investigate the life of Stephen Decatur, how he acquired his wealth and his influence to become a hero in his own time. The practice of dueling in the early 19th century America is examined.
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Website
University of Groningen

American History: Biographies: Aaron Burr Jr. (1756 1836)

For Students 9th - 10th
This university-related site presents a detailed biography of Aaron Burr. Provides insights into the conflict between him and Alexander Hamilton, whom Burr eventually killed in a duel.
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Handout
PBS

Pbs: American Experience: The History of Dueling in America

For Students 9th - 10th
From a PBS special on dueling, this web page focuses on the effect that dueling had on early American history and society's acceptance of this violent custom.
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Primary
PBS

Pbs: American Experience: The Rules of Dueling

For Students 9th - 10th
A site from PBS listing the 25 rules that were adopted internationally in 1777 (with some variations in America), as presented in the PBS special on the history of dueling. Provides insight into the value system of "gentlemen."
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Website
Digital History

Digital History: Pre Civil War Reform: Introduction

For Students 9th - 10th
A good introduction to the topic of reform movements in Pre-Civil War America. What were the reasons that encouraged reform of many social ills?