The American Presidents: [#16] Abraham Lincoln

This is a highly-interactive, discussion-based course that encourages student engagement and conversation.  I will structure the class by using a Google Slides presentation to document the key events and moments of Lincoln's Presidency, while also providing significant time for student questions and input during the lesson.
 
I will also ask the students broader, open-ended questions that task them to think critically and to make connections to current events and contemporary America.

In order to ensure that our discussion remains as orderly as can be expected, and so that every student gets a chance to contribute, this class is capped on the smaller side (8 students).  

Topics related to Lincoln's Presidency that will be covered in the our two lessons include:

WEEK 1:
- Lincoln and Slavery: What was Lincoln's relationship with the issues of race and slavery?
- Fort Sumter: How did the Civil War begin, and what were Lincoln's goals at the start of the war?
- Domestic Policy in the North: How did Lincoln prepare the North for the war, and how did Lincoln respond to Americans who did not agree with him about the war?
- Selection of Military Leaders: What challenges did Lincoln experience when trying to find the best military leaders to lead the Union Army?
- The Battle of Antietam: What was significant about this major battle, and how did Lincoln react in its aftermath?
- The Emancipation Proclamation: In January 1863 Lincoln announced that all slaves in the Confederacy would now be considered free individuals.  What was Lincoln's goal with this message, and what was the Proclamation's impact?

WEEK 2:
- The Battle of Gettysburg: What was significant about this major battle, and how did Lincoln react in its aftermath?
- The Gettysburg Address: What made this speech from Lincoln so famous?  What was his message?
- Policy towards Native Americans: What was President Lincoln's official policy towards Native Americans?
- The Election of 1864: Lincoln almost lost his bid for reelection in 1864.  Why was this election so close?
- The War Ends and Reconstruction: What was Lincoln's plan to reunite the country at the end of the war?
- Lincoln's Death: How did Lincoln's assassination impact his legacy as president?

Students do not need to have prior knowledge of Lincoln, but as an opening icebreaker I will ask students what they know already know about him.  Given that Lincoln is one of America's most well-known presidents, I expect there will be a lot to say here!