Exploring America's Early History: A Worksheet on Episode 1 of "America The Story Of Us" - Rebels
The first episode of the documentary series “America The Story Of Us” titled “Rebels” sets the stage for the birth of a nation, delving into the early struggles and rebellions that shaped the United States. This worksheet is designed to guide viewers through the key points and themes presented in the episode, encouraging a deeper understanding of America’s foundational period.
Pre-Viewing Questions
- What are your initial thoughts about the early history of America?
- What do you know about the Pilgrims and the Mayflower?
Post-Viewing Questions and Answers
Section 1: Early Settlements and Conflicts
- Who were the Pilgrims, and why did they leave England?
Answer: The Pilgrims were English Separatists who sought to separate from the Church of England. They left England to escape persecution and establish a community based on their religious beliefs.
- What was the significance of the Mayflower Compact?
Answer: The Mayflower Compact was an agreement signed by the Pilgrims in 1620, establishing a framework for governing their Plymouth Colony. It is considered one of the earliest forms of democracy in America.
- Describe the relationship between the English colonists and Native Americans.
Answer: Initially, there was a period of peace and trade between the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag tribe, facilitated by Squanto, a Native American who spoke English. However, as more English settlers arrived, conflicts over land and resources increased.
Section 2: Life in the Colonies
- What were some of the challenges faced by the early colonists in establishing their settlements?
Answer: The colonists faced challenges such as disease, lack of supplies, and conflicts with Native Americans. They also had to adapt to a new environment and establish a sustainable economy.
- How did the concept of private property influence the development of the colonies?
Answer: The idea of private property, introduced by the English, led to conflicts with Native Americans who did not understand this concept. It also encouraged individualism and economic growth among the colonists.
Section 3: The Road to Revolution
- What were some of the factors that contributed to the growing tensions between the colonies and Great Britain?
Answer: Factors such as taxation without representation, restrictions on trade and commerce, and the influence of the Enlightenment ideas on liberty and democracy contributed to the growing tensions.
- Describe the significance of the Boston Massacre and the Boston Tea Party.
Answer: The Boston Massacre (1770) and the Boston Tea Party (1773) were pivotal events that showcased the colonists’ resistance to British rule and taxation, eventually leading to the outbreak of the American Revolution.
Notes
📝 Note: The tensions between the English colonists and Native Americans would eventually escalate into conflicts, highlighting the complex and often fraught relationship between the two groups.
📚 Note: The Enlightenment thinkers, such as John Locke, had a significant impact on the colonists' perception of government and individual rights, shaping their desire for independence and democracy.
Conclusion
The first episode of “America The Story Of Us” provides a rich foundation for understanding the early history of the United States. From the Pilgrims’ journey to the growing tensions between the colonies and Great Britain, the episode sets the stage for the birth of a nation built on the principles of democracy, individualism, and freedom.
FAQ Section
Who were the main leaders of the Plymouth Colony?
+William Bradford and William Brewster were among the key leaders of the Plymouth Colony.
What was the significance of the Proclamation of 1763?
+The Proclamation of 1763, issued by King George III, prohibited American colonists from settling west of the Appalachian Mountains to prevent conflicts with Native Americans.
What were some of the main causes of the American Revolution?
+The main causes of the American Revolution included taxation without representation, restrictions on trade and commerce, and the influence of Enlightenment ideas on liberty and democracy.
