Weekly Online Lesson Online Lesson Archive Grade Level: 5-10 Subject: U.S. History/Government

President's Day

On the third Monday of each February America celebrates President's Day, a tribute and a memorial to the office of President of the United States. Traditionally the holiday was observed in memory of George Washington and Abraham Lincoln, both of whom were born in February. Today the national holiday recognizes the tremendous contribution of all 43 presidents who have shaped the history and destiny of our nation.

In this week's online lesson you will learn about George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, and others who have held America's highest office.

The Father of His Country

America's first president, George Washington, was born on February 22, 1732. Thomas Jefferson said of Washington, "His Integrity was the most pure, his justice the most inflexible I have ever known. He was, indeed, in every sense of the word, a wise, a good, and a great man."

Begin learning about the first president of the United States by reading the Biography of George Washington at Grolier Online's The American Presidency. How would you characterize young Washington's childhood? What was his first career? Whom did George Washington marry, and in what year?

How did Washington gain military experience? What were the circumstances surrounding his first defeat? In his military campaigns against the British, name several of his great successes. Name at least two failures. What were the qualities that made Washington a successful general overall?

When Washington was elected president in 1789, what was the vote count? What were the major challenges of his administration? When did Washington leave office, and how long was he able to enjoy his retirement?

For a firsthand look at Washington's life at Mount Vernon, visit George Washington's Mount Vernon site. Click the picture of the mansion to start the Mansion Tour. Choose First Floor, Second Floor, or Third Floor, and then click a room to see a photo and learn about it. What was the original name of the estate? What is the largest room in the house? Where was music often played?

Washington is well known as a military and political leader, but at Mount Vernon he was a successful gentleman farmer. On the left, click George Washington: Pioneer Farmer and learn about his green thumb. Click any of the three photos, and then choose Washington's Five Farms. Why did Washington change from growing tobacco to wheat? How would you define "new husbandry"? What was the 16-sided barn used for?

Illinois Rail Splitter

Abraham Lincoln, or "Honest Abe" as he was known, became the 16th president of the United States on March 4, 1861, with the nation on the brink of civil war. He was born on February 12th.

Once again, begin your study of this honored president by reading his biography at Grolier Online. Why did the Lincolns move to Indiana in 1816? What did Abraham do there as a child? Describe his elementary education. What shaped Lincoln's early opinion of slavery? What was his involvement in the Black Hawk War (1832)?

When was Lincoln first elected to public office, and what was his platform? During his term as a member of the U.S. House of Representatives, why did he oppose the Mexican War? After leaving politics and returning to law, what act of congress renewed his political interest? Who won the Lincoln-Douglas debates, and what was the result? How did Lincoln end up winning the presidential election of 1860?

By the time of Lincoln's inauguration, how many states had seceded from the Union? What was Lincoln's response? What would you say was Lincoln's overall war strategy? How did he handle the slavery issue during the war? How did Lincoln's victory in the 1864 election change the racial future of the United States? Who assassinated Lincoln at Ford's Theater and why?

Next stop is Abraham Lincoln Online, an extensive collection of online resources about this honored president. First, click Speeches to read the text of some of Lincoln's writings and speeches (including his renowned Gettysburg Address). How do you account for the great eloquence of someone who had such a weak education early in life? From his writings, how would you summarize Lincoln's character?

If you have time click Places and tour several historic places related to America's 16th president.

The Other 41

Although our focus is on Washington and Lincoln as we celebrate President's Day, it truly is a holiday in honor of all presidents. To learn more about our other great presidents, visit the presidential home—The White House — and its current occupant, President George W. Bush. Click History & Tours at the top, and then Presidents' Hall. Here you will find a list of every president. Choose at least five and read the short summary of their respective administrations. What were their greatest achievements and their most difficult struggles?

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