Era of Good Feelings & Sectional Tensions
Investigate the period of national unity after the War of 1812 and the emerging sectional divisions.
Key Questions
- Explain the concept of the 'Era of Good Feelings' and its limitations.
- Analyze how the Missouri Compromise attempted to address growing sectional tensions over slavery.
- Evaluate the role of Henry Clay's American System in promoting national economic development.
Common Core State Standards
About This Topic
The Election of 1860 was the final breaking point for the American political system. This topic explores the fragmentation of the party system, the rise of Abraham Lincoln and the Republican Party, and the immediate reaction of the Southern states following his victory. Students analyze the different party platforms and the core arguments for and against secession, focusing on the defense of slavery as the primary motivator for the South.
For 11th graders, this topic is the culmination of decades of sectional tension. it demonstrates how an election can serve as a catalyst for revolutionary change. Students grasp the high stakes of this moment faster through structured simulations of the election and peer-led analysis of the 'Declarations of Causes' issued by seceding states.
Active Learning Ideas
Simulation Game: The Four-Way Election
Divide the class into supporters of Lincoln, Douglas, Breckinridge, and Bell. Students must create campaign posters and give short speeches explaining their candidate's position on slavery and the Union, followed by a mock vote.
Inquiry Circle: Why They Seceded
Small groups analyze the secession documents from states like South Carolina and Mississippi. They must highlight every mention of slavery to determine the primary reason these states left the Union.
Think-Pair-Share: Lincoln's First Inaugural
Students read excerpts from Lincoln's speech. They work in pairs to identify his 'olive branch' to the South and his firm stance on the permanence of the Union, discussing whether war was avoidable at that point.
Watch Out for These Misconceptions
Common MisconceptionLincoln won a majority of the popular vote in 1860.
What to Teach Instead
Lincoln won with only 40% of the popular vote because the opposition was so divided. A 'map analysis' activity helps students see how he won the Electoral College by carrying the entire North, which further convinced the South they had no voice in the government.
Common MisconceptionThe South seceded primarily over 'states' rights' in general.
What to Teach Instead
The primary 'right' they were defending was the right to own enslaved people. Analyzing the Confederate Constitution helps students see that it actually restricted states' rights in some ways to protect the institution of slavery.
Suggested Methodologies
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why was the Democratic Party divided in 1860?
What was the Crittenden Compromise?
Which state was the first to secede and why?
How can active learning help students understand the Election of 1860?
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