Lesson Plan: Native American Genocide and Segregation
Overview
This unit explores the complex and often tragic history of Native Americans in the US,
with a particular focus on genocide and segregation. Students will examine historical
events, analyze primary sources, and engage in critical discussions to develop a deeper
understanding of the experiences of Native American peoples.
Timeline of Significant Events in Native American History
• Pre-Columbian Era: Diverse cultures, complex societies, thriving civilizations
across North America.
• 1492: Arrival of Christopher Columbus, marking the beginning of European coloniza-
tion.
• 1600s-1700s: Increased European settlement, conflict with Native American tribes,
and displacement of indigenous populations.
• 1800s:
◦ Indian Removal Act (1830): Forced relocation of Native Americans to reservations
west of the Mississippi River.
◦ Trail of Tears (1830s): Devastating journey for thousands of Cherokee and other
Native Americans.
◦ Wounded Knee Massacre (1890): Military attack on the Lakota Sioux, marking the
end of the Indian Wars.
• Late 19th and Early 20th Centuries: Assimilation policies, boarding schools, and
attempts to eradicate Native American cultures.
• Mid-20th Century: Termination and relocation policies, leading to further displace-
ment and hardship.
• Late 20th 21st Cent.: Red Power Movement, activism, growing awareness of Na-
tive American issues.
Lesson 1: Introduction to Native American History
• Objectives:
◦ Introduce students to the diverse cultures and societies of Native Americans be-
fore European contact.
◦ Explore the concept of genocide.
◦ Begin to examine the impact of European colonization on Native American popu-
lations.
• Activities:
◦ Map activity: Students locate major Native American tribes and cultural regions.
◦ Reading: Excerpts from primary sources describing Native American life before
colonization.
◦ Discussion: Define genocide and discuss its implications.
Lesson 2: The Era of Removal and the Trail of Tears
• Objectives:
◦ Understand the Indian Removal Act and its consequences.
◦ Analyze the human cost of the Trail of Tears.
◦ Examine the role of government policies in the displacement of Native Americans.
• Activities:
◦ Reading: Excerpts from historical accounts and narratives of the Trail of Tears.
◦ Film: Watch a documentary or film about the Trail of Tears.
◦ Writing: Students write a diary entry or letter from the perspective of a person
forced to relocate.
Lesson 3: Wounded Knee and the End of the Indian Wars
• Objectives:
◦ Explore the events leading up to the Wounded Knee Massacre.
◦ Analyze the impact of the massacre on Native American communities.
◦ Introduce Johnny Cash's song "Wounded Knee" and its significance.
• Activities:
◦ Listen to Johnny Cash's "Wounded Knee" and discuss the song's message.
◦ Analyze primary sources related to the Wounded Knee Massacre.
◦ Debate: Discuss the responsibility of the United States government for the
massacre.
Lesson 4: Assimilation and Boarding Schools
• Objectives:
◦ Understand the goal of assimilation policies.
◦ Analyze the impact of boarding schools on Native American children and
families.
◦ Discuss the long-term consequences of cultural erasure.
• Activities:
◦ Research: Students investigate the history of Native American boarding
schools.
◦ Testimonies: Read and discuss accounts from survivors of boarding schools.
Lesson 5: Contemporary Native American Issues
• Objectives:
◦ Explore the challenges faced by Native Americans today.
◦ Examine issues of sovereignty, land rights, and environmental justice.
◦ Discuss the importance of preserving Native American cultures and lan-
guages.
• Activities:
◦ Guest speaker: Invite a representative from a local Native American commu-
nity to speak about current issues.
◦ Research project: Students investigate a contemporary Native American is-
sue (e.g., missing and murdered Indigenous women, pipeline protests).
◦ Film: Watch a documentary about contemporary Native American life.
Lesson 6: Culminating Project
• Objectives:
◦ Synthesize knowledge gained throughout the unit.
◦ Demonstrate critical thinking and creativity.
◦ Communicate effectively through different mediums.
• Activities:
◦ Students choose from a variety of project options, such as:
▪ Creating a multimedia presentation about a specific Native American tribe
or historical event.
▪ Writing a creative piece (e.g., poem, short story, play) that addresses Na-
tive American themes.
▪ Developing a lesson plan on a specific aspect of Native American history
for younger students.
Additional Considerations:
• Incorporate diverse perspectives by including works by Native American authors
and artists.
• Use authentic materials and primary sources to enhance students' engagement.
• Encourage student-led discussions and debates to promote critical thinking.
• Connect the unit to current events and social justice issues.
By focusing on the history of genocide and segregation, students will gain a deeper un-
derstanding of the complex and often painful experiences of Native American peoples.
