Center for the Teaching of American History--Weston and Herringshaw

Social and Political Change in the 19th Century

The U.S. and the World in the 20th Century

George Washington: Decisions of the Commander-in-Chief
George Weston and Joseph Herringshaw
Vestal Middle School

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Overview/Introduction:
We are all well acquainted with the content of the American Revolution. Educators commonly study, for example, causes of the American Revolution, important battles and outcomes, to name a few. George Washington, as Commander-in-Chief, made many decisions in the course of the war. Overseeing the war involved much more than just conducting battles. What if we dig a little below the surface and examine the areas of espionage and ethnic cleansing. Let's test the sensibilities of seventh graders and judge the statement, "Victory at all costs."

This is a week-long lesson designed for seventh graders.

Lesson/Unit Objectives, Days 1 and 2:

to examine the need for an intelligence network to achieve victory in the American Revolution.

To investigate methods for maintaining secrecy of intelligence information.

To analyze and interpret primary source material.

Lesson/Unit Objectives, Days 3-5:
Students will be able to identify key decisions made by George Washington during the year of 1779, discuss the perception and effect of those decisions on affected parties and apply that knowledge to current events.

Students will participate in a multi-day discussion pertaining to the decision of George Washington to order the Sullivan-Clinton campaign against the Iroquois and the statement, "Victory at all cost."

Overview and Introduction

Materials and documents, Days 1 and 2

Learning Experiences, Days 1 and 2

Materials and documents, Days 3-5

Learning Experiences, Days 3-5

NY State Sandards