Civic Engagement Assignment:
Social, Political and Economic Equality after the Civil War
Civic Engagement Assignment asks you to think about the connections between the post- Civil War era (1865 to early 1900s) and democracy.
STEP ONE: Learn more about the History.
• READ The American Yawp, Chapters 15-19
STEP TWO: Examine the EVIDENCE:
• READ and ANALYZE at least two (2) primary source documents per chapter in The American Yawp Reader.
STEP THREE: THINK ABOUT IT.
STEP FOUR: Respond to this Prompt in a 3 page (~750-1000 words) essay:
Consider the social, political, and economic equality of all Americans in the period following the Civil War. How did African Americans fare during Reconstruction?
What was the impact on cultural traditions and customs of American Indians, Latinos, and Chinese immigrants in the West? And how did American politics and industry affect working Americans during the Gilded Age?
It's important to note that historians disagree as to the extent of equality for Americans in the post-bellum (after the Civil War) period. Obviously, some Americans had more equality than others.
But the challenge is to cite concrete examples to support your interpretation. You must quote the textbook and specific documents in the reader as evidence to make your case.
RECOMMENDATIONS FOR SOLID HISTORICAL WRITING
• Address every question. Be sure to answer every question in the prompt.
• Organize your thoughts and your argument. Include an introduction that lays out the main argument (thesis). Develop your argument and provide evidence in the body of the response. Conclude the essay with a brief summary.
• Prove your point. Provide ample evidence to support your argument(s) by providing concrete examples and quotations from your reading. Cite relevant people, places, and events, as well as primary sources as evidence.
• Think for yourself. Answer the questions with your own brainpower, in your own words. This is not a research paper assignment-this is an historical thinking assignment. The American Yawp and The American Yawp Reader are the only sources that you may consult.
• Write clearly and carefully. Does every sentence make sense? Poor spelling, syntax, punctuation and grammar are often a sign of sloppiness and will weigh heavily against your grade.
• Avoid personal sentiments. Voice your view, but avoid using the first person and personal sentiments such as "I feel that..." or "I believe that..." Your essay should make an academic argument based on your interpretation of historical evidence-not based on your opinion.
• Follow standard formatting and citation. Your essay should be approximately 750 words, standard font (Times New Roman, 12pt), double-spaced with 1-inch margins. Use standard citation style such as MLA, APA, or Chicago.