Happy New Year! This week, though short, has been packed with all things John Brown. Before we went on break we learned about John Brown's life and the raid on Harpers Ferry. Students were asked to review his actions and determine whether the fiery abolitionist was a hero or a villain. As with most people, he was a little bit of both. I told the kids before they left, that they would have to make a decision one way or the other - this met with groans as most were conflicted about what to choose.
This week, we began looking at John Brown through the eyes of people that either knew him or were impacted by his actions. These primary source documents gave us a unique glimpse into the major events that shaped both John Brown's life and actions and the nation as well.Â
To throw a monkey wrench into the mix, I then gave the students the definition (from the Constitution) for treason and asked if John Brown was guilty. Next, I read a portion of a speech by William Lloyd Garrison that painted Brown's actions as a patriot, the same as our founding fathers fighting against oppression and for the rights of all. Most of the kids felt this made their decision about whether he was a hero or a villain even more difficult.
On Thursday, at the end of class, after reviewing numerous witnesses and primary source documents, students had to officially decide what their position on John Brown was.Â
Today, we are beginning to prepare for the trial of John Brown which will take place next Friday, January 12th. The prosecution and the defense have to select five witnesses that they feel best support their case and the roles that they would like to portray in our trial. Â
In preparation for next week, I am asking for parents to serve on our jury. I will need five parents per class. You DO NOT need any background knowledge on the life of John Brown - in fact that might be better. Jury selection will be based on the order in which you volunteer. Please let me know your name, your child's name, the class period that you would like to volunteer for (I will place you with your child's class)
The times for the trials are:
Period 1 - 12:05 - 1:05
Period 2 - 1:10 - 2:10
Period 3 - 2:15 - 3:15Â
If you are selected as a juror, I am asking that you arrive five minutes before class so that you can be here on time. You may leave as soon as the trial is over. Jurors will be asked to listen impartially to the case and determine if John Brown is a traitor or a patriot. You will then be asked to deliberate with your fellow jurors and arrive at a verdict. You will elect a foreman to deliver the verdict to the class and then get to share your thoughts with the class.