Teaching American Slavery and Its Legacy
Acknowledging the role of slavery in American history is crucial to understanding the systemic racism that still exists in the United States today. Slavery shaped the nation’s economy and social structures for centuries, and its legacy continues to influence education, wealth, housing, and the criminal justice system, deeply affecting the lived experiences of Black Americans.
Responding honestly to the human toll of slavery, the ways it was justified and perpetuated, and the long-term impact it has had on generations of Black Americans is essential for building a more just and equitable society. Teaching about slavery is not only a moral imperative; it is necessary for helping students understand how the past informs present-day inequities and struggles for justice.
The lessons and resources in this collection are designed to support educators in teaching about American slavery with historical accuracy, care, and context. They help students examine its causes, realities, and lasting consequences through primary sources, critical inquiry, and age-appropriate classroom materials.
