The Emancipation Proclamation has just been issued by President Lincoln. You are an abolitionist whose
best friend just happens to be pro-slavery. You meet at the local coffee shop to discuss the importance of
the Proclamation and what it means to America. You and your friend have gotten into many discussions
before and have learned to respect one another’s opinion without becoming angry. Since this is such a
sensitive issue in 1863, another friend has come along to moderate the discussion.
OBJECTIVES
Know the basic points to the Emancipation Proclamation.
Recognize what views the North and South had on the Proclamation.
Directions
The moderator, you can call her Marissa, will begin the conversation. When she is finished, write an
imagined conversation between Charles (you) and Buford over the issue of the Emancipation Proclamation.
Keep in mind the times and issues at stake with a Civil War going on. Put yourself in their “shoes” as you
write.
Marissa:
Hello, Charles and Buford. Good to see you again! I understand you would like to discuss President
Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation. I know you are best friends, but let me remind you that this is a civil
conversation, meant to learn how the North and South feel about this topic. You are welcome to state your
point of view but do so as friends and not enemies. No bad language or name calling, and you must be
willing to shake hands when this is done. Agreed? Good! Then let’s get started. I will ask a question to get
the ball rolling, and then you two can take it from there. Buford, you can respond first.
How will the Emancipation Proclamation affect the South and then how will it affect the North?
Buford: Charles:
Did President Lincoln overstep his bounds by issuing the Proclamation?
Charles: Buford:
Final question: What do you think will happen next?
Sample Solution
