The Civil War Role Playing Skits

By Charlotte Dudley

West Valley Central School 5th Grade Teacher

2009

These skits were written based on Civil War facts taken mostly from the

by McGraw-Hill School Division, copyright 2000.

I wrote these skits to use as a teaching tool in my classroom. Some characters

are fictional, and some real-life characters have been given fictionalized

speech. However, all skits are based on true historical facts, and serve to illustrate

the major points presented in the Historical Background sections. Roles are

meant to be assigned to class members after a presentation or discussion of the

historical background.

There are 16 separate skits with 10 separate boy characters and 10 separate

girl characters. Three of the boy characters and 2 of the girl characters appear in 2

separate skits each. Six of the boy characters have parts in 3 separate skits each.

Therefore, there are plenty of parts for any class size.

Here is a listing of the characters in these role playing skits.

Character: Tom Watkins (Fictional) ...in 2 skits

Character: Sam Watkins (Fictional) ...in 3 skits

1

Character: Harriet Tubman (real person) ...in 2 skits

Character: Amos Grayson (fictional person) ...in 2 skits

Character: Sarah Black (fictional person) ...in 1 skit

Union (the North)

Character: Henry Black (fictional person) ...in 3 skits

Character: Billy Campbell (fictional person) ...in 3 skits

Character: Mary Campbell (fictional person) ...in 2 skits

army

Character: Ulysses S. Grant (non-fictional person) ...in 3 skits

Character: Jefferson Davis (non-fictional person) in 2 skits

Character: Robert E. Lee (non-fictional person) ...in 3 skits

Character: Sally Tompkins (Non-Fictional) in 1 skit

Character: Francis Hope (Fictional) ...in 1 skit

Character: Mathew Brody (non-fictional person) ...in 1 skit

3

Character: Abraham Lincoln (non-fictional person) ...in 3 skits

Character: Rose Greenhow (non-fictional person) in 1 skit

Character: Clara Barton (non-fictional person) ...in 1 skit

Character: Caroline Browning (fictional person) …. in 1 skit

Character: Eliza Mackey (fictional person) ...in 1 skit

Character: Henna (fictional person) … in 1skit

4

Name: _______________________________ Social Studies: The Civil War

Date: _______________________________ Role Playing #1

Character: Tom Watkins (Fictional)

Historical Background: Abolitionists were people who wanted to abolish, or end, slavery in the United States.

wrong and should be ended immediately. He believed black people should have the same rights as white people.

Many Southerners hated Mr. Garrison for his beliefs. Even some Northerners opposed him, because although they

did not own slaves themselves, they did not believe blacks and whites should be treated equally.

Sam: Hey, Tom, what are you reading?

Sam: Isn’t he the guy who thinks black slaves should be free?

Tom: Yeah, he thinks they should have equal rights in our country.

Sam: Well, he’s crazy. Blacks aren’t as smart as whites. Being slaves is all they

are good for. They’d probably starve to death if they didn’t have masters to

take care of them.

Tom: Really? Do you really believe that? I don’t think that’s right, brother. I

know a couple black boys who are pretty smart. All they need is an equal

chance at life.

Sam: Well, you might as well throw that newspaper away, little brother, because

it’s never going to happen. And if people around here find out you’re

reading Garrison’s newspaper, you’re apt to lose a bunch of your friends.

Slavery is here to stay.

5

A

Name: _______________________________ Social Studies: The Civil War

Date: _______________________________ Role Playing #2

Character: Sam Watkins (Fictional)

Historical Background: Abolitionists were people who wanted to abolish, or end, slavery in the United States.

wrong and should be ended immediately. He believed black people should have the same rights as white people.

Many Southerners hated Mr. Garrison for his beliefs. Even some Northerners opposed him, because although they

did not own slaves themselves, they did not believe blacks and whites should be treated equally.

Sam: Hey, Tom, what are you reading?

Sam: Isn’t he the guy who thinks black slaves should be free?

Tom: Yeah, he thinks they should have equal rights in our country.

Sam: Well, he’s crazy. Blacks aren’t as smart as whites. Being slaves is all they

are good for. They’d probably starve to death if they didn’t have masters to

take care of them.

Tom: Really? Do you really believe that? I don’t think that’s right, brother. I

know a couple black boys who are pretty smart. All they need is an equal

chance at life.

Sam: Well, you might as well throw that newspaper away, little brother, because

it’s never going to happen. And if people around here find out you’re

reading Garrison’s newspaper, you’re apt to lose a bunch of your friends.

Slavery is here to stay.

6

A

Name: _______________________________ Social Studies: The Civil War

Date: _______________________________ Role Playing #3

Character: Harriet Tubman (real person)

Historical Background: Some slaves tried to run away from their masters and find freedom in

the North. Runaway slaves traveled at night over hundreds of miles most often not knowing

where they were or where they were headed. Slave catchers chased after them. If they were

caught they would be severely beaten, and sometimes even killed. Runaways got help from the

Underground Railroad. This was a system of secret routes and safe-houses where abolitionists

hid the runaway slaves and helped them avoid the slave catchers. Harriet Tubman was a runaway

slave that made it to freedom in the North, and then returned many times to guide others

to freedom.

7

B

Amos: Harriet, what’s the matter? You look mighty upset. You look

like some wolf just ate your mamma.

Harriet: I just heard Master talking. He says he’s selling us to some

plantation down south. I ain’t goin’ down there where they grow that

cotton. I ain’t pickin’ cotton day and night for the rest of my life.

And what about our relatives? Will we ever get to see any of them

again? Probably not.

Amos: Well, I says we don’t have much choice about it, Harriet. If that’s

what Master decides to do, I guess we got to go.

Harriet: Not me. I’m leaving.

Amos: Shush! What do you mean? You know if you run, they’ll be after

you. They’ll track you with the dogs. And if they catch you, they’ll

beat you or worse.

Harriet: I don’t care. “There’s two things I’ve a right to have: death or

liberty. One or the other I mean to have. No one will take me back

alive.”

Amos: Good luck, Harriet. You’re a braver person than I. Remember to

“Follow the Drinking Gourd.” That song will help you find your

way North.

Later:

Harriet: “I looked at my hands, to see if I was the same person now that I was

free. There was such a glory over everything; the sun come like gold

through the trees, and over the fields, and I felt like I was in heaven.”

8

B

Play “Follow the Drinking Gourd” Tape, side 2, # 42

Name: _______________________________ Social Studies: The Civil War

Date: _______________________________ Role Playing #4

Character: Amos Grayson (fictional person)

Historical Background: Some slaves tried to run away from their masters and find freedom

in the North. Runaway slaves traveled at night over hundreds of miles most often not

knowing where they were or where they were headed. Slave catchers chased after them. If

they were caught they would be severely beaten, and sometimes even killed. Runaways

got help from the Underground Railroad. This was a system of secret routes and safehouses

where abolitionists hid the runaway slaves and helped them avoid the slave catchers.

Harriet Tubman was a runaway slave that made it to freedom in the North, and then

returned many times to guide others to freedom.

9

B

Amos: Harriet, what’s the matter? You look mighty upset. You look like

some wolf just ate your mamma.

Harriet: I just heard Master talking. He says he’s selling us to some

plantation down south. I ain’t goin’ down there where they grow that

cotton. I ain’t pickin’ cotton day and night for the rest of my life.

And what about our relatives? Will we ever get to see any of them

again? Probably not.

Amos: Well, I says we don’t have much choice about it, Harriet. If that’s

what Master decides to do, I guess we got to go.

Harriet: Not me. I’m leaving.

Amos: Shush! What do you mean? You know if you run, they’ll be after

you. They’ll track you with the dogs. And if they catch you, they’ll

beat you or worse.

Harriet: I don’t care. “There’s two things I’ve a right to have: death or

liberty. One or the other I mean to have. No one will take me back

alive.”

Amos: Good luck, Harriet. You’re a braver person than I. Remember to

“Follow the Drinking Gourd.” That song will help you find your

way North.

Later:

Harriet: “I looked at my hands, to see if I was the same person now that I was

free. There was such a glory over everything; the sun come like gold

through the trees, and over the fields, and I felt like I was in heaven.”

Play “Follow the Drinking Gourd” Tape, side 2, # 42

10

B

Name: _______________________________ Social Studies: The Civil War

Date: _______________________________ Role Playing #5

Character: Sarah Black (fictional person)

Union (the North)

Historical Background: While thinking about how unfair slavery was, women began to realize

that they were not treated fairly either. Women at that time did not have equal rights as the

men. A married woman could not own property. If she worked, she had to give her wages to

her husband. Women could not vote. Most colleges did not allow women. Women could only

work in professions deemed appropriate for women. Women decided to hold their own convention

in 1848. They met in Seneca Falls, NY, and wrote their own “Declaration of Rights and

Sentiments” describing the laws they believed were unfair to women, and declaring their equality

with men. Lucretia Mott and Elizabeth Cady Stanton were both activists in the women’s

right’s movement. Sojourner Truth was a black woman who spoke to crowds in support of both

abolition and women’s rights.

Sarah: Henry, don’t I work just as hard as you do around here? Don’t I feed the

animals, help with the crops, cook the food, make and clean the clothes, and

do almost anything else that needs doing?

Henry: Well, sure, Sarah. I couldn't run this whole farm without you. You know that.

What, with the animals and the crops and the children, it seems like the work

is never done.

Sarah: Then why is it that I’m not equal to you in the eyes of our country?

Henry: What do you mean?

Sarah: I mean, why can’t I vote? Why can’t I own property? Why can’t I go to

college? And why can’t I run for government office if I want to. You can. It

doesn’t seem fair. Sometimes I feel I’m no better off than a slave.

Henry: Why, Sarah, I never knew you felt like that. Don’t I treat you nice?

Sarah: Henry, I’m not mad at you. You are a good husband, but I want equal rights,

just like everyone else. There’s a convention for women’s right going to be

held this summer in Seneca Falls, N.Y. and I’m going. We’re going to write a

Declaration of Rights and Sentiments for women. Things have got to change

in this country.

11

C

Name: _______________________________ Social Studies: The Civil War

Date: _______________________________ Role Playing #6

Sarah: Henry, don’t I work just as hard as you do around here? Don’t I feed the

animals, help with the crops, cook the food, make and clean the clothes, and

do almost anything else that needs doing?

Henry: Well, sure, Sarah. I couldn't run this whole farm without you. You know that.

What, with the animals and the crops and the children, it seems like the work

is never done.

Sarah: Then why is it that I’m not equal to you in the eyes of our country?

Henry: What do you mean?

Sarah: I mean, why can’t I vote? Why can’t I own property? Why can’t I go to

college? And why can’t I run for government office if I want to. You can. It

doesn’t seem fair. Sometimes I feel I’m no better off than a slave.

Henry: Why, Sarah, I never knew you felt like that. Don’t I treat you nice?

Sarah: Henry, I’m not mad at you. You are a good husband, but I want equal rights,

just like everyone else. There’s a convention for women’s right going to be

held this summer in Seneca Falls, N.Y. and I’m going. We’re going to write a

Declaration of Rights and Sentiments for women. Things have got to

change in this country.

Historical Background: While thinking about how unfair slavery was, women began to realize

that they were not treated fairly either. Women at that time did not have equal rights as the

men. A married woman could not own property. If she worked, she had to give her wages to

her husband. Women could not vote. Most colleges did not allow women. Women could only

work in professions deemed appropriate for women. Women decided to hold their own convention

in 1848. They met in Seneca Falls, NY, and wrote their own “Declaration of Rights and

Sentiments” describing the laws they believed were unfair to women, and declaring their equality

with men. Lucretia Mott and Elizabeth Cady Stanton were both activists in the women’s

right’s movement. Sojourner Truth was a black woman who spoke to crowds in support of both

abolition and women’s rights.

Character: Henry Black (fictional person)

C

12

Name: _______________________________ Social Studies: The Civil War

Date: _______________________________ Role Playing #7

Historical background: In 1820, Congress had passed the Missouri Compromise. This law divided

the U.S. territories into 2 sections: a northern section where slavery was not allowed and

a southern section where slavery was permitted. This helped keep the number of slave and free

states equal as more and more states joined the Union. In 1850, California wanted to join the

union as a free state. This would mean there would be more free states than slave states,

thereby tipping power in Congress to the free states. Southern states were very upset with this,

and refused to allow California to join the Union until a compromise was reached. The Compromise

of 1850 allowed California into the U.S. as a free state, but also passed the Fugitive

Slave Law that required police in the free states to help capture slaves escaping from slave

states. No one was really happy with this compromise. Northern abolitionists often refused to

obey the Fugitive Slave Law, and the Southern states believed they were being treated unfairly

in Congress.

Character: Billy Campbell (fictional person)

D

13

Mary: Why I can’t believe Congress is thinking about letting California join

the U.S. as a free state. That just can’t be. It will tip the balance between

free and slave states. The Missouri Compromise says two states have to

join at the same time. Otherwise how will the free and slave states stay

equal?

Billy: Why does it matter so much, Mother? California is a long way from here

in Georgia. What do we really care?

Mary: I’ll tell you why we care! Those Northerners keep trying to interfere

with our way of life down here in the South. Don’t you realize that they

think it is wrong to own slaves. Without our slaves, we couldn’t run this

plantation. Who would help us with our crops? Who would plant….

And hoe…. And harvest? I’m sure the Northerners are not coming

down here to work for us.

Billy: I know that, but I still don’t understand what California’s got to do with

our slaves.

Mary: Listen to me. If there are more free states than slave states, then when

ever the free states want to make a new law in Congress, they will have

more Representatives and Senators. What if they decide to make slave

ownership illegal? The Southern states would not be able to stop them.

We must have equal free and slave states to keep equal power in

Washington, D.C.

Billy: I guess you are right. I can already see that happening with the Fugitive

Slave Law. It’s only right that those Northerners should return any runaways

to us. After all those slaves are our property. They sure would

want us to return their horse if it ran away down here. But those

Northerners don’t really want to pass that law. You’re right. They don’t

really want us to have slaves. They don’t understand the South and our

way of life at all.

D

14

Name: _______________________________ Social Studies: The Civil War

Date: _______________________________ Role Playing #8

Character: Mary Campbell (fictional person)

army

the Confederate army as a drummer boy.

Historical background: In 1820, Congress had passed the Missouri Compromise. This law divided

the U.S. territories into 2 sections: a northern section where slavery was not allowed and

a southern section where slavery was permitted. This helped keep the number of slave and free

states equal as more and more states joined the Union. In 1850, California wanted to join the

union as a free state. This would mean there would be more free states than slave states,

thereby tipping power in Congress to the free states. Southern states were very upset with this,

and refused to allow California to join the Union until a compromise was reached. The Compromise

of 1850 allowed California into the U.S. as a free state, but also passed the Fugitive

Slave Law that required police in the free states to help capture slaves escaping from slave

states. No one was really happy with this compromise. Northern abolitionists often refused to

obey the Fugitive Slave Law, and the Southern states believed they were being treated unfairly

in Congress.

D

15

Mary: Why I can’t believe Congress is thinking about letting California join

the U.S. as a free state. That just can’t be. It will tip the balance between

free and slave states. The Missouri Compromise says two states have to

join at the same time. Otherwise how will the free and slave states stay

equal?

Billy: Why does it matter so much, Mother? California is a long way from here

in Georgia. What do we really care?

Mary: I’ll tell you why we care! Those Northerners keep trying to interfere

with our way of life down here in the South. Don’t you realize that they

think it is wrong to own slaves. Without our slaves, we couldn’t run this

plantation. Who would help us with our crops? Who would plant….

And hoe…. And harvest? I’m sure the Northerners are not coming

down here to work for us.

Billy: I know that, but I still don’t understand what California’s got to do with

our slaves.

Mary: Listen to me. If there are more free states than slave states, then when

ever the free states want to make a new law in Congress, they will have

more Representatives and Senators. What if they decide to make slave

ownership illegal? The Southern states would not be able to stop them.

We must have equal free and slave states to keep equal power in

Washington, D.C.

Billy: I guess you are right. I can already see that happening with the Fugitive

Slave Law. It’s only right that those Northerners should return any runaways

to us. After all those slaves are our property. They sure would

want us to return their horse if it ran away down here. But those

Northerners don’t really want to pass that law. You’re right. They don’t

really want us to have slaves. They don’t understand the South and our

way of life at all.

D

16

Name: _______________________________ Social Studies: The Civil War

Date: _______________________________ Role Playing #9

Historical background: In the 1850’s there was more and more disagreement about slavery. In

1862, Harriet Beecher Stowe wrote a novel titled Uncle Tom’s Cabin. Many people read this

book that described the cruelty of slavery. It convinced many more people that slavery was

wrong. In 1854, Congress passed the Kansas-Nebraska Act. This law allowed Kansas and Nebraska

territories to decide for themselves whether or not to allow slavery. Many people were

afraid that both Northerners and Southerners would quickly flood into these 2 new states and

end up fighting each other over the slavery issue. This is exactly what happened. Buildings

were burned and people were killed. In 1857, The Dred Scott Decision by the Supreme Court

said that a man could take his property, including slaves, into any state in the country and still

own that property. That meant no state could really be slave-free if a slave owner wanted to

bring his slaves with him into that state. In 1859, abolitionist, John Brown, tried to take weapons

being stored by the federal government in Harpers Ferry, Virginia and pass them out to

slaves. He was arrested and hung. The slavery issue was becoming more and more heated and

violent.

Character: Abraham Lincoln (non-fictional person)

E

17

Abraham Lincoln: This is not a good idea. What was Congress thinking? This law

Congress just passed will allow Kansas and Nebraska to

decide for themselves whether or not to allow slavery in their

states. Why, pioneers will come from both the North and the

South just trying to be first to grab up new land in these states.

They’ll be fighting each other to get the land. This contest will

come to blows and bloodshed, I just know it.

Ulysses S. Grant: You are probably right. You heard about the Supreme Court’s

decision, didn’t you? Dred Scott was a slave, and when his

master moved to a free state, Dred Scott thought that he should

be free. But the Supreme Court says NO. They say slaves are

property, whether they are living in a free state or a slave state.

I can’t see the Northern states agreeing to that.

Abraham Lincoln: I hear that some states are ignoring this ruling. They are just

not going to obey. Why, no state will be free if Southerners can

bring their slaves up North with them.

Ulysses S. Grant: Abe, you ought to run for the Senate, and go down there to

Washington. Somebody needs to set those people straight.

Abraham Lincoln: “Well, I know that if slavery is not wrong, then nothing is

wrong.” I think I will run for the Senate. Maybe I can help

this country solve this issue. And who knows, if I don’t get

elected to the Senate, maybe I’ll just run for President.

E

18

Name: _______________________________ Social Studies: The Civil War

Date: _______________________________ Role Playing #10

Character: Ulysses S. Grant (non-fictional person)

Historical background: In the 1850’s there was more and more disagreement about slavery. In

1862, Harriet Beecher Stowe wrote a novel titled Uncle Tom’s Cabin. Many people read this

book that described the cruelty of slavery. It convinced many more people that slavery was

wrong. In 1854, Congress passed the Kansas-Nebraska Act. This law allowed Kansas and Nebraska

territories to decide for themselves whether or not to allow slavery. Many people were

afraid that both Northerners and Southerners would quickly flood into these 2 new states and

end up fighting each other over the slavery issue. This is exactly what happened. Buildings

were burned and people were killed. In 1857, The Dred Scott Decision by the Supreme Court

said that a man could take his property, including slaves, into any state in the country and still

own that property. That meant no state could really be slave-free if a slave owner wanted to

bring his slaves with him into that state. In 1859, abolitionist, John Brown, tried to take weapons

being stored by the federal government in Harpers Ferry, Virginia and pass them out to

slaves. He was arrested and hung. The slavery issue was becoming more and more heated and

violent.

E

19

Abraham Lincoln: This is not a good idea. What was Congress thinking? This law

Congress just passed will allow Kansas and Nebraska to

decide for themselves whether or not to allow slavery in their

states. Why, pioneers will come from both the North and the

South just trying to be first to grab up new land in these states.

They’ll be fighting each other to get the land. This contest will

come to blows and bloodshed, I just know it.

Ulysses S. Grant: You are probably right. You heard about the Supreme Court’s

decision, didn’t you? Dred Scott was a slave, and when his

master moved to a free state, Dred Scott thought that he should

be free. But the Supreme Court says NO. They say slaves are

property, whether they are living in a free state or a slave state.

I can’t see the Northern states agreeing to that.

Abraham Lincoln: I hear that some states are ignoring this ruling. They are just

not going to obey. Why, no state will be free if Southerners can

bring their slaves up North with them.

Ulysses S. Grant: Abe, you ought to run for the Senate, and go down there to

Washington. Somebody needs to set those people straight.

Abraham Lincoln: “Well, I know that if slavery is not wrong, then nothing is

wrong.” I think I will run for the Senate. Maybe I can help

this country solve this issue. And who knows, if I don’t get

elected to the Senate, maybe I’ll just run for President.

E

20

Name: _______________________________ Social Studies: The Civil War

Date: _______________________________ Role Playing #11

Historical background: In 1860, Lincoln ran against Stephen Douglas and 2 other candidates

for President of the U.S. Of the 4 candidates, only Abraham Lincoln was firmly against slavery.

Lincoln promised to leave slavery alone in states where it already existed. However, Lincoln

wanted no more slave states. Southerners knew this would quickly give free states majority

power in Congress. Some southern states started talking about seceding from the union if

Lincoln was elected President. To secede means to leave the country.

Character: Jefferson Davis (non-fictional person)

Jefferson Davis: Lincoln for President? Never! If Abraham Lincoln gets

elected U.S. President our way of life is doomed. He’s against

slavery, and even though he says he won’t change slavery laws in

states that already have slaves, I just don’t trust him. It won’t be long

before the South is outnumbered in Congress, and we’ll lose all our

political power.

Robert E. Lee: Well, I hear he’s going to run.

Jefferson Davis: He better not get elected. If he does the South won’t stand for

it. We made a lot of sacrifices during the Revolutionary War to

establish community independence. The South has the right to alter

or abolish the government if that’s what we decide. Lincoln is against

slavery. Why that means he’s against the South. If he gets elected

President I think the South should quit the United States.

Robert E. Lee: Oh, I do hope it doesn’t come to that. I really love this country.

Many of my good friends are from the North. Most of my family and

all of my neighbors are from the South. Which side would I be on?

F

21

Name: _______________________________ Social Studies: The Civil War

Date: _______________________________ Role Playing #12

Character: Robert E. Lee (non-fictional person)

Jefferson Davis: Lincoln for President? Never! If Abraham Lincoln gets

elected U.S. President our way of life is doomed. He’s against

slavery, and even though he says he won’t change slavery laws in

states that already have slaves, I just don’t trust him. It won’t be long

before the South is outnumbered in Congress, and we’ll lose all our

political power.

Robert E. Lee: Well, I hear he’s going to run.

Jefferson Davis: He better not get elected. If he does the South won’t stand for

it. We made a lot of sacrifices during the Revolutionary War to

establish community independence. The South has the right to alter

or abolish the government if that’s what we decide. Lincoln is against

slavery. Why that means he’s against the South. If he gets elected

President I think the South should quit the United States.

Robert E. Lee: Oh, I do hope it doesn’t come to that. I really love this country.

Many of my good friends are from the North. Most of my family and

all of my neighbors are from the South. Which side would I be on?

Historical background: In 1860, Lincoln ran against Stephen Douglas and 2 other candidates

for President of the U.S. Of the 4 candidates, only Abraham Lincoln was firmly against slavery.

Lincoln promised to leave slavery alone in states where it already existed. However, Lincoln

wanted no more slave states. Southerners knew this would quickly give free states majority

power in Congress. Some southern states started talking about seceding from the union if

Lincoln was elected President. To secede means to leave the country.

F

22

Name: _______________________________ Social Studies: The Civil War

Date: _______________________________ Role Playing #13

Character: Robert E. Lee (non-fictional person)

Historical background: In November 1860, Abraham Lincoln was elected the 16th President of

the U.S. In December 1860, the state of South Carolina voted to secede. By March 1861, 6

more southern states had decided to secede. They formed a new country called The Confederate

States of America. President Lincoln said to secede was illegal and not to be allowed, and

so the conflict between the North and the South became a war, the Civil War. The South’s first

act of war was to take over U.S. Fort Sumter, North Carolina by force.

People were forced to take sides. Were you for the South or for the North? The people

of Virginia, especially, had a hard time choosing. In the end, the western portion of Virginia,

split away from the rest of the state and became West Virginia. West Virginia sided with the

North, while Virginia went with the South. Sometimes even families split over which side to

take in the war. Brothers ended up fighting against each other. General Robert E. Lee was a

well respected General in the U.S. army. He didn’t really want the South to secede from the

union, but he felt he could not fight against his friends and neighbors, so when Virginia went

with the South, Lee turned down Lincoln’s offer to lead the Northern army and fought for the

South.

The Bonnie Flag, tape side 2, 118

23

G

Abraham Lincoln: I never wanted a war! But South Carolina and its neighbors

have left us no choice. They can not secede. They are part of

the U.S. for good and forever. Fort Sumter is an United States

fort and taking over that fort is a declaration of war against the

United States.

Ulysses Grant: I’m with you, Mr. President. The South will have to be taught

a lesson.

Abraham Lincoln: How about you, General Lee? Can I count on you?

Robert E. Lee: It saddens me, Mr. President. I do love the United States. I

graduated from the United States Military Academy at West

Point. And I’ve served in the United States military for more

than 30 years. But I was born and raised in Virginia. My

relatives still live in Virginia. My home is in Virginia. My

friends and neighbors live in Virginia. I can not fight against

my home and my family.

Ulysses S. Grant: You are making the biggest mistake of you life, General Lee.

Robert E. Lee: This is not an easy decision. Many of my fellow citizens in

Virginia are torn about which side to take. It may tear our state

apart. But my decision is made and I now must bid you fine

men goodbye. May God save us all. (leaves the room)

Abraham Lincoln: That’s a tragedy. Lee’s a good man and a great General. I’m

afraid that will not be the only tragedy in this war. A Civil

War! Can you imagine? Countrymen, family members,

states…. All fighting against each other. It’s so sad.

G

24

Name: _______________________________ Social Studies: The Civil War

Date: _______________________________ Role Playing #14

Historical background: In November 1860, Abraham Lincoln was elected the 16th President of

the U.S. In December 1860, the state of South Carolina voted to secede. By March 1861, 6

more southern states had decided to secede. They formed a new country called The Confederate

States of America. President Lincoln said to secede was illegal and not to be allowed, and

so the conflict between the North and the South became a war, the Civil War. The South’s first

act of war was to take over U.S. Fort Sumter, North Carolina by force.

People were forced to take sides. Were you for the South or for the North? The people

of Virginia, especially, had a hard time choosing. In the end, the western portion of Virginia,

split away from the rest of the state and became West Virginia. West Virginia sided with the

North, while Virginia went with the South. Sometimes even families split over which side to

take in the war. Brothers ended up fighting against each other. General Robert E. Lee was a

well respected General in the U.S. army. He didn’t really want the South to secede from the

union, but he felt he could not fight against his friends and neighbors, so when Virginia went

with the South, Lee turned down Lincoln’s offer to lead the Northern army and fought for the

South.

Character: Ulysses S. Grant (non-fictional person)

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25

Abraham Lincoln: I never wanted a war! But South Carolina and its neighbors

have left us no choice. They can not secede. They are part of

the U.S. for good and forever. Fort Sumter is an United States

fort and taking over that fort is a declaration of war against the

United States.

Ulysses Grant: I’m with you, Mr. President. The South will have to be taught

a lesson.

Abraham Lincoln: How about you, General Lee? Can I count on you?

Robert E. Lee: It saddens me, Mr. President. I do love the United States. I

graduated from the United States Military Academy at West

Point. And I’ve served in the United States military for more

than 30 years. But I was born and raised in Virginia. My

relatives still live in Virginia. My home is in Virginia. My

friends and neighbors live in Virginia. I can not fight against

my home and my family.

Ulysses S. Grant: You are making the biggest mistake of you life, General Lee.

Robert E. Lee: This is not an easy decision. Many of my fellow citizens in

Virginia are torn about which side to take. It may tear our state

apart. But my decision is made and I now must bid you fine

men goodbye. May God save us all. (leaves the room)

Abraham Lincoln: That’s a tragedy. Lee’s a good man and a great General. I’m

afraid that will not be the only tragedy in this war. A Civil

War! Can you imagine? Countrymen, family members,

states…. All fighting against each other. It’s so sad.

G

26

Historical background: In November 1860, Abraham Lincoln was elected the 16th President of

the U.S. In December 1860, the state of South Carolina voted to secede. By March 1861, 6

more southern states had decided to secede. They formed a new country called The Confederate

States of America. President Lincoln said to secede was illegal and not to be allowed, and

so the conflict between the North and the South became a war, the Civil War. The South’s first

act of war was to take over U.S. Fort Sumter, North Carolina by force.

People were forced to take sides. Were you for the South or for the North? The people

of Virginia, especially, had a hard time choosing. In the end, the western portion of Virginia,

split away from the rest of the state and became West Virginia. West Virginia sided with the

North, while Virginia went with the South. Sometimes even families split over which side to

take in the war. Brothers ended up fighting against each other. General Robert E. Lee was a

well respected General in the U.S. army. He didn’t really want the South to secede from the

union, but he felt he could not fight against his friends and neighbors, so when Virginia went

with the South, Lee turned down Lincoln’s offer to lead the Northern army and fought for the

South.

Name: _______________________________ Social Studies: The Civil War

Date: _______________________________ Role Playing #15

Character: Abraham Lincoln (non-fictional person)

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27

Abraham Lincoln: I never wanted a war! But South Carolina and its neighbors

have left us no choice. They can not secede. They are part of

the U.S. for good and forever. Fort Sumter is an United States

fort and taking over that fort is a declaration of war against the

United States.

Ulysses Grant: I’m with you, Mr. President. The South will have to be taught

a lesson.

Abraham Lincoln: How about you, General Lee? Can I count on you?

Robert E. Lee: It saddens me, Mr. President. I do love the United States. I

graduated from the United States Military Academy at West

Point. And I’ve served in the United States military for more

than 30 years. But I was born and raised in Virginia. My

relatives still live in Virginia. My home is in Virginia. My

friends and neighbors live in Virginia. I can not fight against

my home and my family.

Ulysses S. Grant: You are making the biggest mistake of you life, General Lee.

Robert E. Lee: This is not an easy decision. Many of my fellow citizens in

Virginia are torn about which side to take. It may tear our state

apart. But my decision is made and I now must bid you fine

men goodbye. May God save us all. (leaves the room)

Abraham Lincoln: That’s a tragedy. Lee’s a good man and a great General. I’m

afraid that will not be the only tragedy in this war. A Civil

War! Can you imagine? Countrymen, family members,

states…. All fighting against each other. It’s so sad.

G

28

Name: _______________________________ Social Studies: The Civil War

Date: _______________________________ Role Playing #16

Historical Background: Most leaders thought the Civil War would be over in a few short

months. However, fighting went on for 4 long years. Both sides thought they would win.

The North thought they would win because they had a larger population and could raise a larger

army. Most of the factories were in the North, so they could produce more supplies. Also

most food was grown in the North, and the North had the most railroads to move troops and

supplies from place to place.

The South, however, was highly motivated, because their way of life was threatened.

The South had many well-trained officers and their soldiers were more experienced with

horses and guns than the Northern soldiers were. The South won several of the beginning

battles including the battle of Bull Run.

Many young men thought going to war was going to an adventure, but they quickly

discovered it was cold, uncomfortable, tiring, and deadly. Women helped by making medical

supplies, warm clothing, nursing, and even spying.

Character: Rose Greenhow (non-fictional person)

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29

Rose Greenhow: I need to see President Davis right away. Tell him Rose

Greenhow is here.

Confederate Soldier Sam Watkins: Ma’am, President Jefferson Davis is a very

busy man. You can’t just stop in for a social visit any time you want.

Rose Greenhow: Soldier, this is NOT a social call. Tell him Rose Greenhow is

here to see him, and tell him right now!

President Jefferson Davis: What’s all the commotion out here. Oh, it is you,

Rose. Come right in. Soldier, anytime you see this woman you bring her right in

to see me.

Sam Watkins: Yes, Sir! (salutes)

Jefferson Davis: Good to see you Rose. What have you heard lately up there in

Washington, D.C.?

Rose Greenhow: Well, you know I usually send you my messages in code, but

this time I decided to deliver it in person. It seemed pretty important.

Jefferson Davis: Do tell, Rose.

Rose Greenhow: I heard that the Union Army is crossing the Potomic River and

heading south through Virginia. They’ll be crossing near a place called Bull Run.

If you have your soldiers there waiting for them, I’m pretty sure you could surprise

them. They are starting on the way next Tuesday.

Jefferson Davis: Rose, I can’t thank you enough for that information. You are a

very valuable spy for the Confederates. I’m going to send T.J. Jackson and his

troops up there. Those Union Jacks are in for a big surprise.

H

30

Name: _______________________________ Social Studies: The Civil War

Date: _______________________________ Role Playing #17

Historical Background: Most leaders thought the Civil War would be over in a few short

months. However, fighting went on for 4 long years. Both sides thought they would win.

The North thought they would win because they had a larger population and could raise a larger

army. Most of the factories were in the North, so they could produce more supplies. Also

most food was grown in the North, and the North had the most railroads to move troops and

supplies from place to place.

The South, however, was highly motivated, because their way of life was threatened.

The South had many well-trained officers and their soldiers were more experienced with

horses and guns than the Northern soldiers were. The South won several of the beginning battles

including the battle of Bull Run.

Many young men thought going to war was going to an adventure, but they quickly

discovered it was cold, uncomfortable, tiring, and deadly. Women helped by making medical

supplies, warm clothing, nursing, and even spying.

Character: Sam Watkins (Fictional)

H

31

Rose Greenhow: I need to see President Davis right away. Tell him Rose

Greenhow is here.

Confederate Soldier Sam Watkins: Ma’am, President Jefferson Davis is a very

busy man. You can’t just stop in for a social visit any time you want.

Rose Greenhow: Soldier, this is NOT a social call. Tell him Rose Greenhow is

here to see him, and tell him right now!

President Jefferson Davis: What’s all the commotion out here. Oh, it is you,

Rose. Come right in. Soldier, anytime you see this woman you bring her right in

to see me.

Sam Watkins: Yes, Sir! (salutes)

Jefferson Davis: Good to see you Rose. What have you heard lately up there in

Washington, D.C.?

Rose Greenhow: Well, you know I usually send you my messages in code, but

this time I decided to deliver it in person. It seemed pretty important.

Jefferson Davis: Do tell, Rose.

Rose Greenhow: I heard that the Union Army is crossing the Potomic River and

heading south through Virginia. They’ll be crossing near a place called Bull Run.

If you have your soldiers there waiting for them, I’m pretty sure you could surprise

them. They are starting on the way next Tuesday.

Jefferson Davis: Rose, I can’t thank you enough for that information. You are a

very valuable spy for the Confederates. I’m going to send T.J. Jackson and his

troops up there. Those Union Jacks are in for a big surprise.

H

32

Name: _______________________________ Social Studies: The Civil War

Date: _______________________________ Role Playing #18

Historical Background: Most leaders thought the Civil War would be over in a few short

months. However, fighting went on for 4 long years. Both sides thought they would win.

The North thought they would win because they had a larger population and could raise a larger

army. Most of the factories were in the North, so they could produce more supplies. Also

most food was grown in the North, and the North had the most railroads to move troops and

supplies from place to place.

The South, however, was highly motivated, because their way of life was threatened.

The South had many well-trained officers and their soldiers were more experienced with

horses and guns than the Northern soldiers were. The South won several of the beginning battles

including the battle of Bull Run.

Many young men thought going to war was going to an adventure, but they quickly

discovered it was cold, uncomfortable, tiring, and deadly. Women helped by making medical

supplies, warm clothing, nursing, and even spying.

Character: Jefferson Davis (non-fictional person)

H

33

Rose Greenhow: I need to see President Davis right away. Tell him

Rose Greenhow is here.

Confederate Soldier Sam Watkins: Ma’am, President Jefferson Davis is a very

busy man. You can’t just stop in for a social visit any time you want.

Rose Greenhow: Soldier, this is NOT a social call. Tell him Rose Greenhow is

here to see him, and tell him right now!

President Jefferson Davis: What’s all the commotion out here. Oh, it is you,

Rose. Come right in. Soldier, anytime you see this woman you bring her right in

to see me.

Sam Watkins: Yes, Sir! (salutes)

Jefferson Davis: Good to see you Rose. What have you heard lately up there in

Washington, D.C.?

Rose Greenhow: Well, you know I usually send you my messages in code, but

this time I decided to deliver it in person. It seemed pretty important.

Jefferson Davis: Do tell, Rose.

Rose Greenhow: I heard that the Union Army is crossing the Potomic River and

heading south through Virginia. They’ll be crossing near a place called Bull Run.

If you have your soldiers there waiting for them, I’m pretty sure you could surprise

them. They are starting on the way next Tuesday.

Jefferson Davis: Rose, I can’t thank you enough for that information. You are a

very valuable spy for the Confederates. I’m going to send T.J. Jackson and his

troops up there. Those Union Jacks are in for a big surprise.

H

34

Name: _______________________________ Social Studies: The Civil War

Date: _______________________________ Role Playing #19

Character: Billy Campbell (fictional person)

Historical Background: President Lincoln’s Union army struggled against the Confederates,

but the Southerners were not easy to defeat. Finally the North won a big battle at Antietam,

Maryland on September 17, 1862. This win inspired the North and gave them hope of winning

the war. However, over 23,000 men on both sides were killed or wounded making Antietam

one of the bloodiest battles in U.S. history. President Lincoln also inspired his troops by issuing

the Emancipation Proclamation. The Proclamation stated the “all persons held as slaves

within any state… in rebellion against the Untied States, shall be then, thenceforth, and forever

free.” The Emancipation Proclamation ended slavery in the Confederacy.

Even boys as young as 12 joined the armies. Often times young boys served as drummers

or flag bearers. Both were dangerous jobs, since it was the drummers and flag bearers

who led their troops into battle.

Mary: (crying) Oh, no! Say it ain’t so! My husband is dead? Killed at Antietam

by the Yankees? I hate those Yankees!

Billy: I hate those Yankees so much. I’m joining up. I’ll kill ‘em!

Mary: Billy, please don’t go. Your father is already dead, and if you leave I will

be all alone here on the plantation. Besides you’re only 12 years old.

You’re just a boy.

Billy: I don’t care. I’m going. I’ll carry the drum if that’s all they’ll let me. But

sooner of later, I’ll pick up a rifle off some dead Yankee and use it to teach

them Yankees not to mess with us.

Mary: But Billy, who’s going to help me run this plantation?

Billy: Listen Ma, I’m sorry, but if we don’t whup these Yankees we won’t none

of us have any plantations to run. You’re just going to have to run it

yourself. Don’t tell the slaves about Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation.

If they don’t know they’re free, then they keep working for you. I won’t

be gone that long. I’ll be back as soon as I can.

Mary: Oh please, be careful, Billy. I just can’t bear it if you get hurt or

killed.

I

35

Name: _______________________________ Social Studies: The Civil War

Date: _______________________________ Role Playing #20

Character: Mary Campbell (fictional person)

army

Historical Background: President Lincoln’s Union army struggled against the Confederates,

but the Southerners were not easy to defeat. Finally the North won a big battle at Antietam,

Maryland on September 17, 1862. This win inspired the North and gave them hope of winning

the war. However, over 23,000 men on both sides were killed or wounded making Antietam

one of the bloodiest battles in U.S. history. President Lincoln also inspired his troops by issuing

the Emancipation Proclamation. The Proclamation stated the “all persons held as slaves

within any state… in rebellion against the Untied States, shall be then, thenceforth, and forever

free.” The Emancipation Proclamation ended slavery in the Confederacy.

Even boys as young as 12 joined the armies. Often times young boys served as drummers

or flag bearers. Both were dangerous jobs, since it was the drummers and flag bearers

who led their troops into battle.

Mary: (crying) Oh, no! Say it ain’t so! My husband is dead? Killed at Antietam

by the Yankees? I hate those Yankees!

Billy: I hate those Yankees so much. I’m joining up. I’ll kill ‘em!

Mary: Billy, please don’t go. Your father is already dead, and if you leave I will

be all alone here on the plantation. Besides you’re only 12 years old.

You’re just a boy.

Billy: I don’t care. I’m going. I’ll carry the drum if that’s all they’ll let me. But

sooner of later, I’ll pick up a rifle off some dead Yankee and use it to teach

them Yankees not to mess with us.

Mary: But Billy, who’s going to help me run this plantation?

Billy: Listen Ma, I’m sorry, but if we don’t whup these Yankees we won’t none

of us have any plantations to run. You’re just going to have to run it

yourself. Don’t tell the slaves about Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation.

If they don’t know they’re free, then they keep working for you. I won’t

be gone that long. I’ll be back as soon as I can.

Mary: Oh please, be careful, Billy. I just can’t bear it if you get hurt or

killed.

I

36

Character: Amos Grayson (fictional person)

Name: _______________________________ Social Studies: The Civil War

Date: _______________________________ Role Playing #21

Historical Background: After the Emancipation Proclamation freed the slaves, it also allowed

them to serve in the Union army. Blacks volunteered to fight, but were kept in regiments

(soldier groups) separate from the white soldiers. Unbelievably, some slaves also fought with

the Confederate army because they were promised freedom by their owners if they did.

Fighting was hard and dangerous no matter if you were white or black. New weapons,

such as rifles that could shoot farther, the Gatling machine gun, exploding cannon balls, and

iron-covered battle ships, called ironclads, caused terrible deaths and injuries. Medical help

was primitive with little or no pain medication or antibiotics. Injured arms or legs were routinely

sawed off by the surgeons as this was the only way known to prevent infections that were

fatal. Even those drastic measures didn’t always work, and the death toll was high. Harriet

Tubman was now working as a nurse for the Union soldiers.

J

37

Harriet Tubman: Here, sip a little water, soldier. It will help you feel better.

Ohhhhh…… Where’s my foot? Am I going to die?

me, Harriet. Amos, I haven’t seen you since our days back on

ol’ Master Tom’s plantation.

Amos: Harriet! It’s so good to see someone I know. What are you doing

here?

Harriet: I’m helping out as a nurse now. I only wish I could do more, but

supplies are low. So many wounded soldiers! It’s horrible.

Amos: Well, I’ve always thought about what you said about being free, and

when President Lincoln sighed the Emancipation Proclamation I

decided it was time for me to fight for freedom. I just never planned

on getting wounded.

Harriet: Yes, that Lincoln is a good man. It’s about time that all slaves be set

free.

Amos: I know I shouldn’t complain,. After all I’m not dead, and so many of

my regiment are dead. But, what good am I without a foot. You know

they just sawed the whole thing off. I was still awake. I ain’t never

had so much pain. Maybe I’d be better off just dying.

Harriet: Now don’t you go talking like that Amos. I’m going to stay right here

and nurse you till you’re better. We’ve been waiting all our lives to

be free, and by golly, we’re going to be.

Harriet and others sing The Battle Cry of Freedom (Northern Version).

J

38

Character: Harriet Tubman (real person)

Name: _______________________________ Social Studies: The Civil War

Date: _______________________________ Role Playing #22

Historical Background: After the Emancipation Proclamation freed the slaves, it also allowed

them to serve in the Union army. Blacks volunteered to fight, but were kept in regiments

(soldier groups) separate from the white soldiers. Unbelievably, some slaves also fought with

the Confederate army because they were promised freedom by their owners if they did.

Fighting was hard and dangerous no matter if you were white or black. New weapons,

such as rifles that could shoot farther, the Gatling machine gun, exploding cannon balls, and

iron-covered battle ships, called ironclads, caused terrible deaths and injuries. Medical help

was primitive with little or no pain medication or antibiotics. Injured arms or legs were routinely

sawed off by the surgeons as this was the only way known to prevent infections that were

fatal. Even those drastic measures didn’t always work, and the death toll was high.

Harriet

Tubman was now working as a nurse for the Union soldiers.

J

39

Harriet Tubman: Here, sip a little water, soldier. It will help you feel better.

Ohhhhh…… Where’s my foot? Am I going to die?

me, Harriet. Amos, I haven’t seen you since our days back on

ol’ Master Tom’s plantation.

Amos: Harriet! It’s so good to see someone I know. What are you doing

here?

Harriet: I’m helping out as a nurse now. I only wish I could do more, but

supplies are low. So many wounded soldiers! It’s horrible.

Amos: Well, I’ve always thought about what you said about being free, and

when President Lincoln sighed the Emancipation Proclamation I

decided it was time for me to fight for freedom. I just never planned

on getting wounded.

Harriet: Yes, that Lincoln is a good man. It’s about time that all slaves be set

free.

Amos: I know I shouldn’t complain,. After all I’m not dead, and so many of

my regiment are dead. But, what good am I without a foot. You know

they just sawed the whole thing off. I was still awake. I ain’t never

had so much pain. Maybe I’d be better off just dying.

Harriet: Now don’t you go talking like that Amos. I’m going to stay right here

and nurse you till you’re better. We’ve been waiting all our lives to

be free, and by golly, we’re going to be.

Harriet and others sing The Battle Cry of Freedom (Northern Version).

J

40

Character: Sam Watkins (Fictional)

Name: _______________________________ Social Studies: The Civil War

Date: _______________________________ Role Playing #23

Historical Background: Women also worked very hard and in new ways during the Civil War.

Many worked outside their homes for the first time in their lives. They needed to do the jobs

left behind by the soldiers. Some worked in factories, stores, as school teachers or clerks. Many

ran their family businesses while their husbands were away. They prepared supplies such as

cartridges for muskets and cannons, bandages, and clothing. Women served as nurses, and

sometimes even converted their homes into hospitals.

Sally Thompson ran a private hospital in Richmond. She treated over 1,300 confederate

soldiers and saved all but 73 of them. This was the best record of any war hospital in either the

North or the South.

People were forced to take sides. Were you for the South or for the North? The people

of Virginia, especially, had a hard time choosing. In the end, the western portion of Virginia,

split away from the rest of the state and became West Virginia. West Virginia sided with the

North, while Virginia went with the South. Sometimes even families split over which side to

take in the war. Brothers ended up fighting against each other.

K

41

Sam Watkins: Nurse! Come talk to me, please. I know you’re busy, but I’m

so lonesome. I ain’t talked to no one for 3 days.

Sally Tompkins: Well, you’re right, I am busy. I run this hospital you know. But

we have the best record for saving soldiers of all the hospitals,

and that’s because we take real good care of our guys. So if

you need to talk, then I’m here to talk.

Sam: What’s your name?

Sally: I’m Sally Tompkins, and you’re here in Richmond, Virginia.

Sam: I’m Sam Watkins from Northwest Virginia. I guess now that’s called

West Virginia, since they decided to stay with the Union. That’s one

of the reasons I’m so lonely. Even my own brother, Tom, decided to

fight for the Union. I just can’t believe it. He’s a traitor to me.

Sally: Sorry to hear that, Sam. I can understand how that must trouble you.

Do you ever think about him when you’re on the battlefield?

Sam: I think about him all the time. He might have been the Yank that shot

me. Luckily for me, this little wound to my hip is almost healed. I’ll

be back fighting in no time. What if I’m shooting at my brother?

What if I kill my own brother? I worry about that all the time. I

even dream about it in my sleep. I hate this war.

Sally: Well, please just rest easy for a while. You’re here now and I

wouldn’t try to hurry back to the fighting. I pray every night that this

will all be over soon, and we can all go home again.

Sam: Me, too. Except I worry. Will there be a home to go back to? And

will my brother and I ever be able to forgive and forget. My family

might be broken forever.

(Singing in the background: The Battle Cry of Freedom—Southern version)

42

K

Historical Background: Women also worked very hard and in new ways during the Civil War.

Many worked outside their homes for the first time in their lives. They needed to do the jobs

left behind by the soldiers. Some worked in factories, stores, as school teachers or clerks. Many

ran their family businesses while their husbands were away. They prepared supplies such as

cartridges for muskets and cannons, bandages, and clothing. Women served as nurses, and

sometimes even converted their homes into hospitals.

Sally Thompson ran a private hospital in Richmond. She treated over 1,300 confederate

soldiers and saved all but 73 of them. This was the best record of any war hospital in either the

North or the South.

People were forced to take sides. Were you for the South or for the North? The people

of Virginia, especially, had a hard time choosing. In the end, the western portion of Virginia,

split away from the rest of the state and became West Virginia. West Virginia sided with the

North, while Virginia went with the South. Sometimes even families split over which side to

take in the war. Brothers ended up fighting against each other.

Name: _______________________________ Social Studies: The Civil War

Date: _______________________________ Role Playing #24

Character: Sally Tompkins (Non-Fictional)

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43

Sam Watkins: Nurse! Come talk to me, please. I know you’re busy, but I’m

so lonesome. I ain’t talked to no one for 3 days.

Sally Tompkins: Well, you’re right, I am busy. I run this hospital you know. But

we have the best record for saving soldiers of all the hospitals,

and that’s because we take real good care of our guys. So if

you need to talk, then I’m here to talk.

Sam: What’s your name?

Sally: I’m Sally Tompkins, and you’re here in Richmond, Virginia.

Sam: I’m Sam Watkins from Northwest Virginia. I guess now that’s called

West Virginia, since they decided to stay with the Union. That’s one

of the reasons I’m so lonely. Even my own brother, Tom, decided to

fight for the Union. I just can’t believe it. He’s a traitor to me.

Sally: Sorry to hear that, Sam. I can understand how that must trouble you.

Do you ever think about him when you’re on the battlefield?

Sam: I think about him all the time. He might have been the Yank that shot

me. Luckily for me, this little wound to my hip is almost healed. I’ll

be back fighting in no time. What if I’m shooting at my brother?

What if I kill my own brother? I worry about that all the time. I

even dream about it in my sleep. I hate this war.

Sally: Well, please just rest easy for a while. You’re here now and I

wouldn’t try to hurry back to the fighting. I pray every night that this

will all be over soon, and we can all go home again.

Sam: Me, too. Except I worry. Will there be a home to go back to? And

will my brother and I ever be able to forgive and forget. My family

might be broken forever.

(Singing in the background: The Battle Cry of Freedom—Southern version)

K

44

Name: _______________________________ Social Studies: The Civil War

Date: _______________________________ Role Playing #25

Character: Francis Hope (Fictional)

As the number of dead and injured soldier rose steadily, men of all ages signed up to fight.

Boys as young as 14 years old signed up pretending to be 18 years old. Twelve year old boys

could sign up as drummers, and often ended up fighting right along with the rest of the troops.

Even men in their 60s and 70s served as soldiers. Many towns and villages had very few men

left at home because they were all away fighting in the war. Women were not allowed to be soldiers,

but even some women disguised themselves as men to fight on the battlefield.

Supplies were also dwindling and hard to come by. Often after a battle was over, soldiers

would take supplies they needed from soldiers dead on the battlefield.

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45

Henry: Are you okay, Francis?

Francis: Yeah, I guess so.

Henry: Boy, that was close for us. I wasn’t sure any of us would make it out

alive.

Francis: Here comes the wagon. They have already collected the wounded.

Guess it’s time to pick up our dead. I hate this even more than the

shooting.

Henry: You’re right about that. I hate it too. But my boots got holes in them.

Best I git me a new pair. Hey, Francis. Take this jacket. You need it.

And look, this guy’s got a whole shaving kit. Do you need that yet,

Francis? Ha! Anyone can see you’re too young to even shave.

(laughs)

Francis: Henry, we’re good friends now, right?

Henry: Sure! After what we’ve been through, you can trust me with your

life.

Francis: Well, Henry… I’m going to tell you a secret, and you got to promise

not to tell anyone.

Henry: Sure, Francis, you can trust me.

Francis: Well… You know how I won’t swim or bathe with anyone. It’s not

cause I can’t swim like I told everyone. It’s because….. I’m a girl.

(Removes her hat to reveal her long hair.)

Henry: What the heck! Why are you here?

Francis: I just had to fight. I just couldn’t stay home. I love my country and I

really believe in “all men… and I say, women too… are created

equal.” Our cause is just. We must preserve the U.S.A. I’ve always

loved the outdoors and I can handle a musket better than most men.

You’re a good friend, Henry. Please don’t tell.

L

46

Name: _______________________________ Social Studies: The Civil War

Date: _______________________________ Role Playing #26

As the number of dead and injured soldier rose steadily, men of all ages signed up to fight.

Boys as young as 14 years old signed up pretending to be 18 years old. Twelve year old boys

could sign up as drummers, and often ended up fighting right along with the rest of the troops.

Even men in their 60s and 70s served as soldiers. Many towns and villages had very few men

left at home because they were all away fighting in the war. Women were not allowed to be soldiers,

but even some women disguised themselves as men to fight on the battlefield.

Supplies were also dwindling and hard to come by. Often after a battle was over, soldiers

would take supplies they needed from soldiers dead on the battlefield.

Character: Henry Black (fictional person)

L

47

Henry: Are you okay, Francis?

Francis: Yeah, I guess so.

Henry: Boy, that was close for us. I wasn’t sure any of us would make it out

alive.

Francis: Here comes the wagon. They have already collected the wounded.

Guess it’s time to pick up our dead. I hate this even more than the

shooting.

Henry: You’re right about that. I hate it too. But my boots got holes in them.

Best I git me a new pair. Hey, Francis. Take this jacket. You need it.

And look, this guy’s got a whole shaving kit. Do you need that yet,

Francis? Ha! Anyone can see you’re too young to even shave.

(laughs)

Francis: Henry, we’re good friends now, right?

Henry: Sure! After what we’ve been through, you can trust me with your

life.

Francis: Well, Henry… I’m going to tell you a secret, and you got to promise

not to tell anyone.

Henry: Sure, Francis, you can trust me.

Francis: Well… You know how I won’t swim or bathe with anyone. It’s not

cause I can’t swim like I told everyone. It’s because….. I’m a girl.

(Removes her hat to reveal her long hair.)

Henry: What the heck! Why are you here?

Francis: I just had to fight. I just couldn’t stay home. I love my country and I

really believe in “all men… and I say, women too… are created

equal.” Our cause is just. We must preserve the U.S.A. I’ve always

loved the outdoors and I can handle a musket better than most men.

You’re a good friend, Henry. Please don’t tell.

L

48

Name: _______________________________ Social Studies: The Civil War

Date: _______________________________ Role Playing #27

Character: Mathew Brody (non-fictional person)

The camera was invented in the early 1800’s. The Civil War is the first American war that is

recorded with photographs. Mathew Brody was the most famous photographer of the time. He

traveled with the Union army photographing images of people and events. Since the subjects of

his photographs had to poise for several minutes, his photos do not capture action shots.

Clara Barton was a famous nurse for the Northern army. Over 3,000 Northern women

worked as Army nurses. Often the nurses had to deal with severe wounds with very few supplies.

Sometimes bullets had to be dug out with nothing but a jack-knife. Clara Barton went on

to found the American Red Cross in 1881.

M

49

Mathew Brody: Hey, Clara Barton. Come on over here. I need you to

pose for me. The soldiers say you are the best nurse in the Union.

Clara Barton: Mathew Brody, can’t you see I’m busy. I’ve no time for that

foolishness. There are soldiers hurting and dying here. Go

away, I’m busy.

Tom Watkins: (moaning) Nurse, nurse. Help me please.

Clara Barton: Soldier, take it easy. I’m here. I’m going to help. Where are

you hurt?

Tom Watkins: My arm. I can’t move it. I think I’ve been shot.

Clara Barton: You’re right. There’s a bullet hole right here. I can help. I’ve

done it before, but it’s going to hurt. I’ve got to take the bullet

out or it will just get infected.

Mathew Brody: Can I help?

Clara Barton: Yeah, sit on him. Hold him down. I’ll use my knife to dig out

the bullet. Be brave, soldier. I’ll be as fast as I can.

Tom Watkins: (Moans…..)

Later…..

Mathew Brody: Okay, Miss Barton. I helped you. Now it’s your turn to help

me. Sit right there. I’m going to take a picture of you. My job

is important also. People need to know all about this war and

how terrible it is. They need to know about the heroes like you

who are just trying to make things a little better. Maybe if

more people knew how awful war was they would hurry up

and end this thing.

Clara Barton: Maybe you are right. Okay. I’m posing. Take your picture.

M

50

Name: _______________________________ Social Studies: The Civil War

Date: _______________________________ Role Playing #28

Character: Clara Barton (non-fictional person)

The camera was invented in the early 1800’s. The Civil War is the first American war that is

recorded with photographs. Mathew Brody was the most famous photographer of the time. He

traveled with the Union army photographing images of people and events. Since the subjects of

his photographs had to poise for several minutes, his photos do not capture action shots.

Clara Barton was a famous nurse for the Northern army. Over 3,000 Northern women

worked as Army nurses. Often the nurses had to deal with severe wounds with very few supplies.

Sometimes bullets had to be dug out with nothing but a jack-knife. Clara Barton went on

to found the American Red Cross in 1881.

M

51

Mathew Brody: Hey, Clara Barton. Come on over here. I need you to pose for

me. The soldiers say you are the best nurse in the Union.

Clara Barton: Mathew Brody, can’t you see I’m busy. I’ve no time for that

foolishness. There are soldiers hurting and dying here. Go

away, I’m busy.

Tom Watkins: (moaning) Nurse, nurse. Help me please.

Clara Barton: Soldier, take it easy. I’m here. I’m going to help. Where are

you hurt?

Tom Watkins: My arm. I can’t move it. I think I’ve been shot.

Clara Barton: You’re right. There’s a bullet hole right here. I can help. I’ve

done it before, but it’s going to hurt. I’ve got to take the bullet

out or it will just get infected.

Mathew Brody: Can I help?

Clara Barton: Yeah, sit on him. Hold him down. I’ll use my knife to dig out

the bullet. Be brave, soldier. I’ll be as fast as I can.

Tom Watkins: (Moans…..)

Later…..

Mathew Brody: Okay, Miss Barton. I helped you. Now it’s your turn to help

me. Sit right there. I’m going to take a picture of you. My job

is important also. People need to know all about this war and

how terrible it is. They need to know about the heroes like you

who are just trying to make things a little better. Maybe if

more people knew how awful war was they would hurry up

and end this thing.

Clara Barton: Maybe you are right. Okay. I’m posing. Take your picture.

M

52

The camera was invented in the early 1800’s. The Civil War is the first American war that is

recorded with photographs. Mathew Brody was the most famous photographer of the time. He

traveled with the Union army photographing images of people and events. Since the subjects of

his photographs had to poise for several minutes, his photos do not capture action shots.

Clara Barton was a famous nurse for the Northern army. Over 3,000 Northern women

worked as Army nurses. Often the nurses had to deal with severe wounds with very few supplies.

Sometimes bullets had to be dug out with nothing but a jack-knife. Clara Barton went on

Character: Tom Watkins (Fictional)

Name: _______________________________ Social Studies: The Civil War

53

Mathew Brody: Hey, Clara Barton. Come on over here. I need you to pose for

me. The soldiers say you are the best nurse in the Union.

Clara Barton: Mathew Brody, can’t you see I’m busy. I’ve no tome for that

foolishness. There are soldiers hurting and dying here. Go

away, I’m busy.

Tom Watkins: (moaning) Nurse, nurse. Help me please.

Clara Barton: Soldier, take it easy. I’m here. I’m going to help. Where are

you hurt?

Tom Watkins: My arm. I can’t move it. I think I’ve been shot.

Clara Barton: You’re right. There’s a bullet hole right her. I can help. I’ve

done it before, but it’s going to hurt. I’ve got to take the bullet

out or it will just get infected.

Mathew Brody: Can I help?

Clara Barton: Yeah, sit on him. Hold him down. I’ll use my knife to dig out

the bullet. Be brave, soldier. I’ll be as fast as I can.

Tom Watkins: (Moans…..)

Later…..

Mathew Brody: Okay, Miss Barton. I helped you. Now it’s your turn to help

me. Sit right there. I’m going to take a picture of you. My job

is important also. People need to know all about this war and

how terrible it is. They need to know about the heroes like you

who are just trying to make things a little better. Maybe if

more people knew how awful war was they would hurry up

and end this thing.

Clara Barton: Maybe you are right. Okay. I’m posing. Take your picture.

M

54

Name: _______________________________ Social Studies: The Civil War

Date: _______________________________ Role Playing #30

Character: Henry Black (fictional person)

Historical Background: One of the most famous battles of the Civil War happened at Gettysburg,

Pennsylvania in July 1863. Neither side had planned to fight there, but after meeting up a

3 day battle took place. The Union won at Gettysburg and this battle changed the course of the

war in favor of the North. However, it was a bloody battle with over 28,000 Confederate soldiers

wounded or killed. The North sustained heavy losses as well. Casualties were so high in

this and other battles that Lincoln issued a draft to get more fighting soldiers. A draft is when a

government forces its citizens to join the military.

Abraham Lincoln traveled to Gettysburg after the battle and delivered one of his most

famous speeches, “The Gettysburg Address.’’ (S.S. textbook p.484) Lincoln’s words inspired

the war-weary North not to give up. He explained clearly that a democratic, united country with

no slavery was worth fighting for.

President Lincoln: Soldier, come here and sit by me on this train. I need you to

listen to my speech. I have to say something when I get to

Gettysburg, but what can you say that can make up for the

thousands and thousands of soldiers that died here last month?

Henry Black: Yes, Sir.

Lincoln: Thanks, Henry. By the way, I know you were drafted. I know you

did not join up voluntarily. And well, I just want to thank you for

doing your duty for the United States. We need you.

Henry: Mr. President, I love my country, and I’m proud to serve. It’s just that

I had to leave my wife all alone back in West Valley, N.Y. We have a

dairy farm there. There’s a lot of work on the farm, and I don’t know

if she can handle it all on her own.

N

55

Lincoln: Sacrifices…. Yeah, we’ve all had to make sacrifices. It’s been a

trying war for everyone. Let me just say thank-you again for your

sacrifice, soldier. Now listen to this speech. Tell me what you think.

(Lincoln recites “The Gettysburg Address.”)

Lincoln: “Fourscore and seven years ago our fathers brought forth, on this

continent, a new nation, conceived in Liberty, and dedicated to the

proposition that all men are created equal.

Now we are engaged in a great civil war, testing whether that nation,

or any nation so conceived, and so dedicated, can long endure. We

are met on a great battlefield of that war. We have come to dedicate a

portion of that field, as a final resting-place for those who here gave

their lives, that that nation might live. It is altogether fitting and

proper that we should do this.

But, in a larger sense, we cannot dedicate, we can not consecrate, we

can no hallow, this ground. The brave men, living and dead, who

struggled here, have consecrated it far above our poor power to add

or detract. The world will little note, nor long remember what we say

here, but it can never forget what they did here. It is for us the living,

rather, to be dedicated here to the unfinished work which they who

fought here have thus so far nobly advanced. It is rather for us to be

here dedicated to the great task remaining before us that from these

honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they

gave the last full measure of devotion; that we here highly resolve

that these dead shall not have died in vain; that this nation, under

God, shall have a new birth of freedom; and that government of the

people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth.”

Henry: It’s a short speech, Mr. President, but very heartfelt. It’s inspiring….

Makes me believe that the Union can not give up. We have to win

this war. I think people will remember your speech always.

N

56

Name: _______________________________ Social Studies: The Civil War

Date: _______________________________ Role Playing #31

Character: Abraham Lincoln (non-fictional person)

Historical Background: One of the most famous battles of the Civil War happened at Gettysburg,

Pennsylvania in July 1863. Neither side had planned to fight there, but after meeting up a

3 day battle took place. The Union won at Gettysburg and this battle changed the course of the

war in favor of the North. However, it was a bloody battle with over 28,000 Confederate soldiers

wounded or killed. The North sustained heavy losses as well. Casualties were so high in

this and other battles that Lincoln issued a draft to get more fighting soldiers. A draft is when a

government forces its citizens to join the military.

Abraham Lincoln traveled to Gettysburg after the battle and delivered one of his most

famous speeches, “The Gettysburg Address.’’ (S.S. textbook p.484) Lincoln’s words inspired

the war-weary North not to give up. He explained clearly that a democratic, united country with

no slavery was worth fighting for.

President Lincoln: Soldier, come here and sit by me on this train. I need you to

listen to my speech. I have to say something when I get to

Gettysburg, but what can you say that can make up for the

thousands and thousands of soldiers that died here last month?

Henry Black: Yes, Sir.

Lincoln: Thanks, Henry. By the way, I know you were drafted. I know you

did not join up voluntarily. And well, I just want to thank you for

doing your duty for the United States. We need you.

Henry: Mr. President, I love my country, and I’m proud to serve. It’s just that

I had to leave my wife all alone back in West Valley, N.Y. We have a

dairy farm there. There’s a lot of work on the farm, and I don’t know

if she can handle it all on her own.

N

57

Lincoln: Sacrifices…. Yeah, we’ve all had to make sacrifices. It’s been a

trying war for everyone. Let me just say thank-you again for your

sacrifice, soldier. Now listen to this speech. Tell me what you think.

(Lincoln recites “The Gettysburg Address.”)

Lincoln: “Fourscore and seven years ago our fathers brought forth, on this

continent, a new nation, conceived in Liberty, and dedicated to the

proposition that all men are created equal.

Now we are engaged in a great civil war, testing whether that nation,

or any nation so conceived, and so dedicated, can long endure. We

are met on a great battlefield of that war. We have come to dedicate a

portion of that field, as a final resting-place for those who here gave

their lives, that that nation might live. It is altogether fitting and

proper that we should do this.

But, in a larger sense, we cannot dedicate, we can not consecrate, we

can no hallow, this ground. The brave men, living and dead, who

struggled here, have consecrated it far above our poor power to add

or detract. The world will little note, nor long remember what we say

here, but it can never forget what they did here. It is for us the living,

rather, to be dedicated here to the unfinished work which they who

fought here have thus so far nobly advanced. It is rather for us to be

here dedicated to the great task remaining before us that from these

honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they

gave the last full measure of devotion; that we here highly resolve

that these dead shall not have died in vain; that this nation, under

God, shall have a new birth of freedom; and that government of the

people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth.”

Henry: It’s a short speech, Mr. President, but very heartfelt. It’s inspiring….

Makes me believe that the Union can not give up. We have to win

this war. I think people will remember your speech always.

N

58

Character: Caroline Browning (fictional person)

Name: _______________________________ Social Studies: The Civil War

Date: _______________________________ Role Playing #32

Historical Background: The Civil War dragged on for 4 long years. By 1864 the Union blockades

of Southern ports had cut off supplies to the South. The South was running out of food,

clothing, and ammunition. Still Lincoln’s General Grant could not catch the South’s General

Lee or force him to surrender. The Union General Sherman decided to make the South so sick

of war that they will never want war again. He marched his troops from Atlanta, Georgia to

Savannah, Georgia practicing “total war”. Total war is an all-out war to destroy people’s ability

and will to fight. Sherman’s troops took or destroyed every building, animal, crop, and resource

they marched past. This destroyed the Confederates last source of supplies for its armies.

O

59

Henna: Here’s the hardtack we baked this morning, Miz Liza. And you need to

know that’s the end of all our flour.

Eliza: Thank you, Henna. We’ll just have to manage without, I guess.

(Henna leaves the room.)

Caroline: We have so little of everything, and what little we do have goes into these

care packages for our troops.

Eliza: I declare, how many of these care packages do you suppose we’ve packed,

Caroline?

Caroline: I lost count a long time ago. I just wish we could get more of the needed

supplies. We’re just running out of everything. Why I had to rip up some

of my old sheets or the last boxes would have had no bandages at all.

Eliza: I know. I ran out of yarn last week, and now there are no more warm socks

to pack in theses boxes. Why it just breaks my heart thinking of our

soldier boys - cold, wet, and hungry.

Caroline: Whoever thought this awful war would last this long. It’s been 4 years!

My husband has been hoping to get some of his ships into port for a long

time. But you know those Yankees took over Fort Pulaski and they’ve

blockaded the harbor. Not even my husband’s supply ships can get into

Savannah.

Eliza: Oh, I know. Believe me, I know. My husband can’t ship out our cotton.

It’s a bad year for everyone. Everyone is going bankrupt if the war lasts

much longer. Already my good friend Mary Campbell is in big financial

trouble. Her husband was killed, her son is in the Confederate army, and

she’s trying to run Campbell plantation by herself. Well, most of her

slaves have run off and the crops are in ruins. She’ll never be able to pay

her debts. The poor woman! I don’t know what she’ll do.

from the river. The Yankees are coming!

Caroline: What? Coming here? To Savannah?

Henna: General Sherman! He’s coming! He and his troops are just outside the

city. What should we do? They’ve been burning a path all the way through

Georgia. Will they burn our city, Miz Eliza? Will they burn our

house?

O

60

Character: Eliza Mackey (fictional person)

Name: _______________________________ Social Studies: The Civil War

Date: _______________________________ Role Playing #33

Historical Background: The Civil War dragged on for 4 long years. By 1864 the Union blockades

of Southern ports had cut off supplies to the South. The South was running out of food,

clothing, and ammunition. Still Lincoln’s General Grant could not catch the South’s General

Lee or force him to surrender. The Union General Sherman decided to make the South so sick

of war that they will never want war again. He marched his troops from Atlanta, Georgia to

Savannah, Georgia practicing “total war”. Total war is an all-out war to destroy people’s ability

and will to fight. Sherman’s troops took or destroyed every building, animal, crop, and resource

they marched past. This destroyed the Confederates last source of supplies for its armies.

O

61

Henna: Here’s the hardtack we baked this morning, Miz Liza. And you need to

know that’s the end of all our flour.

Eliza: Thank you, Henna. We’ll just have to manage without, I guess.

(Henna leaves the room.)

Caroline: We have so little of everything, and what little we do have goes into these

care packages for our troops.

Eliza: I declare, how many of these care packages do you suppose we’ve packed,

Caroline?

Caroline: I lost count a long time ago. I just wish we could get more of the needed

supplies. We’re just running out of everything. Why I had to rip up some

of my old sheets or the last boxes would have had no bandages at all.

Eliza: I know. I ran out of yarn last week, and now there are no more warm socks

to pack in theses boxes. Why it just breaks my heart thinking of our

soldier boys - cold, wet, and hungry.

Caroline: Whoever thought this awful war would last this long. It’s been 4 years!

My husband has been hoping to get some of his ships into port for a long

time. But you know those Yankees took over Fort Pulaski and they’ve

blockaded the harbor. Not even my husband’s supply ships can get into

Savannah.

Eliza: Oh, I know. Believe me, I know. My husband can’t ship out our cotton.

It’s a bad year for everyone. Everyone is going bankrupt if the war lasts

much longer. Already my good friend Mary Campbell is in big financial

trouble. Her husband was killed, her son is in the Confederate army, and

she’s trying to run Campbell plantation by herself. Well, most of her

slaves have run off and the crops are in ruins. She’ll never be able to pay

her debts. The poor woman! I don’t know what she’ll do.

from the river. The Yankees are coming!

Caroline: What? Coming here? To Savannah?

Henna: General Sherman! He’s coming! He and his troops are just outside the

city. What should we do? They’ve been burning a path all the way through

Georgia. Will they burn our city, Miz Eliza? Will they burn our

house?

0

62

Name: _______________________________ Social Studies: The Civil War

Date: _______________________________ Role Playing #34

Historical Background: The Civil War dragged on for 4 long years. By 1864 the Union blockades

of Southern ports had cut off supplies to the South. The South was running out of food,

clothing, and ammunition. Still Lincoln’s General Grant could not catch the South’s General

Lee or force him to surrender. The Union General Sherman decided to make the South so sick

of war that they will never want war again. He marched his troops from Atlanta, Georgia to

Savannah, Georgia practicing “total war”. Total war is an all-out war to destroy people’s ability

and will to fight. Sherman’s troops took or destroyed every building, animal, crop, and resource

they marched past. This destroyed the Confederates last source of supplies for its armies.

Character: Henna (fictional person)

O

63

Henna: Here’s the hardtack we baked this morning, Miz Liza. And you need to

know that’s the end of all our flour.

Eliza: Thank you, Henna. We’ll just have to manage without, I guess.

(Henna leaves the room.)

Caroline: We have so little of everything, and what little we do have goes into these

care packages for our troops.

Eliza: I declare, how many of these care packages do you suppose we’ve packed,

Caroline?

Caroline: I lost count a long time ago. I just wish we could get more of the needed

supplies. We’re just running out of everything. Why I had to rip up some

of my old sheets or the last boxes would have had no bandages at all.

Eliza: I know. I ran out of yarn last week, and now there are no more warm socks

to pack in theses boxes. Why it just breaks my heart thinking of our

soldier boys - cold, wet, and hungry.

Caroline: Whoever thought this awful war would last this long. It’s been 4 years!

My husband has been hoping to get some of his ships into port for a long

time. But you know those Yankees took over Fort Pulaski and they’ve

blockaded the harbor. Not even my husband’s supply ships can get into

Savannah.

Eliza: Oh, I know. Believe me, I know. My husband can’t ship out our cotton.

It’s a bad year for everyone. Everyone is going bankrupt if the war lasts

much longer. Already my good friend Mary Campbell is in big financial

trouble. Her husband was killed, her son is in the Confederate army, and

she’s trying to run Campbell plantation by herself. Well, most of her

slaves have run off and the crops are in ruins. She’ll never be able to pay

her debts. The poor woman! I don’t know what she’ll do.

from the river. The Yankees are coming!

Caroline: What? Coming here? To Savannah?

Henna: General Sherman! He’s coming! He and his troops are just outside the

city. What should we do? They’ve been burning a path all the way through

Georgia. Will they burn our city, Miz Eliza? Will they burn our

house?

0

64

Name: _______________________________ Social Studies: The Civil War

Date: _______________________________ Role Playing #35

Character: Robert E. Lee (non-fictional person)

Historical Background: General Grant had been chasing General Lee for some time. Finally by

April 1865, Grant’s 125,000 men surrounded Lee’s starving army of 35,000 near Richmond,

Virginia. “There is nothing left for me to do…” Lee said. On April 9, 1865, General Lee surrendered

to General Grant in Appomattox Court House, Virginia. President Jefferson Davis

fled westward, but was captured in May, 1865. The war was over.

Men on both sides were simply allowed to go home and resume their civilian lives.

However, that was especially hard to do in the South. Very few farms were still in working order,

and the plantation way of life was destroyed forever.

About 620,000 people had died in this war, and many more wounded. Almost every

family had suffered the loss of someone. Slavery was over, but Blacks were still not treated

fairly or equally. It would take many years for the South to rebuild and recover. But the Union,

the United States had survived, and our country never split like this again.

65

P

Victory Song of Freedom, tape side 2, #272

General Robert E. Lee: This is a sad day indeed, but there is nothing else I can

do. The Union has taken the Confederate’s capital city,

Richmond. I tried to get my troops west. I was hoping

to find food for my starving men, and maybe some new

recruits. But no, there were just more Union soldiers

blocking our way. I have no choice, but to surrender.

Billy Campbell: General, the troops don’t blame you. You have been a

brave and smart leader. But we are starving. I don’t

think we can go on any more.

you and to the United states of America.

General Grant: In the name of the United states, I accept your unconditional

surrender. You will not be taken prisoner. The war is over. Tell

each of your men to lay down their weapons. Then they will be

allowed to return to their homes. They will not be disturbed or

arrested by the United States authorities. The war is over. Let

us now work to be one country.

you. Go home now. I shall always be proud of you.

countrymen again. Let them go in peace.

Billy Campbell: “I shall not attempt to describe my feelings. Richmond is in

ruins. With a raging headache and a swelling heart I reach my

home, and here the curtain falls. My way of life is gone

P

66

Name: _______________________________ Social Studies: The Civil War

Date: _______________________________ Role Playing #36

Character: Ulysses S. Grant (non-fictional person)

Victory Song of Freedom, tape side 2, #272

Historical Background: General Grant had been chasing General Lee for some time. Finally by

April 1865, Grant’s 125,000 men surrounded Lee’s starving army of 35,000 near Richmond,

Virginia. “There is nothing left for me to do…” Lee said. On April 9, 1865, General Lee surrendered

to General Grant in Appomattox Court House, Virginia. President Jefferson Davis

fled westward, but was captured in May, 1865. The war was over.

Men on both sides were simply allowed to go home and resume their civilian lives.

However, that was especially hard to do in the South. Very few farms were still in working order,

and the plantation way of life was destroyed forever.

About 620,000 people had died in this war, and many more wounded. Almost every

family had suffered the loss of someone. Slavery was over, but Blacks were still not treated

fairly or equally. It would take many years for the South to rebuild and recover. But the Union,

the United States had survived, and our country never split like this again.

P

67

General Robert E. Lee: This is a sad day indeed, but there is nothing else I can

do. The Union has taken the Confederate’s capital city,

Richmond. I tried to get my troops west. I was hoping

to find food for my starving men, and maybe some new

recruits. But no, there were just more Union soldiers

blocking our way. I have no choice, but to surrender.

Billy Campbell: General, the troops don’t blame you. You have been a

brave and smart leader. But we are starving. I don’t

think we can go on any more.

you and to the United states of America.

General Grant: In the name of the United states, I accept your unconditional

surrender. You will not be taken prisoner. The war is over. Tell

each of your men to lay down their weapons. Then they will be

allowed to return to their homes. They will not be disturbed or

arrested by the United States authorities. The war is over. Let

us now work to be one country.

you. Go home now. I shall always be proud of you.

countrymen again. Let them go in peace.

Billy Campbell: “I shall not attempt to describe my feelings. Richmond is in

ruins. With a raging headache and a swelling heart I reach my

home, and here the curtain falls. My way of life is gone

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Name: _______________________________ Social Studies: The Civil War

Date: _______________________________ Role Playing #37

Character: Billy Campbell (fictional person)

Victory Song of Freedom, tape side 2, #272

Historical Background: General Grant had been chasing General Lee for some time. Finally by

April 1865, Grant’s 125,000 men surrounded Lee’s starving army of 35,000 near Richmond,

Virginia. “There is nothing left for me to do…” Lee said. On April 9, 1865, General Lee surrendered

to General Grant in Appomattox Court House, Virginia. President Jefferson Davis

fled westward, but was captured in May, 1865. The war was over.

Men on both sides were simply allowed to go home and resume their civilian lives.

However, that was especially hard to do in the South. Very few farms were still in working order,

and the plantation way of life was destroyed forever.

About 620,000 people had died in this war, and many more wounded. Almost every

family had suffered the loss of someone. Slavery was over, but Blacks were still not treated

fairly or equally. It would take many years for the South to rebuild and recover. But the Union,

the United States had survived, and our country never split like this again.

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General Robert E. Lee: This is a sad day indeed, but there is nothing else I can

do. The Union has taken the Confederate’s capital city,

Richmond. I tried to get my troops west. I was hoping

to find food for my starving men, and maybe some new

recruits. But no, there were just more Union soldiers

blocking our way. I have no choice, but to surrender.

Billy Campbell: General, the troops don’t blame you. You have been a

brave and smart leader. But we are starving. I don’t

think we can go on any more.

you and to the United states of America.

General Grant: In the name of the United states, I accept your unconditional

surrender. You will not be taken prisoner. The war is over. Tell

each of your men to lay down their weapons. Then they will be

allowed to return to their homes. They will not be disturbed or

arrested by the United States authorities. The war is over. Let

us now work to be one country.

you. Go home now. I shall always be proud of you.

countrymen again. Let them go in peace.

Billy Campbell: “I shall not attempt to describe my feelings. Richmond is in

ruins. With a raging headache and a swelling heart I reach my

home, and here the curtain falls. My way of life is gone

P

70