Curated OER
Who Fought for the Confederacy?
Did the Confederate Army really consist of southern volunteers? Using primary sources, historians examine the story behind the "Twenty Negro Law" and realities of conscription during the Civil War. A letter and a lithograph (included as...
Center for History Education
Northern Racism and the New York City Draft Riots of 1863
Just how racist were some people in the North during the American Civil War? Using excerpts of the Conscription Act, as well as graphic images of lynchings, young historians consider why white people in New York City rioted and killed...
Curated OER
A New York Rioter Explains His Opposition to the Draft
In this primary source analysis worksheet, students analyze a letter from a New York rioter over the Conscription Act. Students respond to 3 short answer questions about the letter to the editor of the New York Times.
Alabama Department of Archives and History
Military Conscription in World War I: Alabamians Express Their Opinions
If called, would you go? Should the US government have the power to impose a draft during any war? The Selective Service Act of 1917 (aka the Conscription Act of 1917) authorized the drafting of men into the military for only the second...
Curated OER
What Really Caused This?
In this primary source analysis worksheet, high schoolers read a copy of the Conscription Act of 1863 and respond to 7 short answer questions about its content. The text of the act is not included.
Canadian War Museum
Comparing Primary and Secondary Sources
This simple two-day lesson plan introduces learners to the differences between primary and secondary sources. The lesson plan includes group work that explores the similarities and differences, and the advantages and disadvantages of...
Curated OER
Northern Racism and the New York City Draft Riots of 1865
Pupils analyze primary source illustrations and personal accounts of the New York City Draft riots. They draw conclusions about the existence and power of Northern racism toward African Americans
Curated OER
Second World War - Conscription Events
Students explore the iam Lyon Mackenzie King Diaries which describe the involvement of Canada in WWII.
Curated OER
Cartoons for the Classroom: Censorship, Silencing an Anti-War Voice
In this primary source analysis worksheet, students analyze political cartoons with anti-war messages and respond to 5 talking point questions.
Curated OER
The Civil War Soldier's Experience
Students examine the social experiences of the soldiers on the battlefield. Using various viewpoints, they compare their daily life experiences and motives for fighting for the Confederate, Union and African-American soldiers. They...