Who really invented the cotton gin?

Almost every history book says that Eli Whitney "invented" the cotton gin. But should he really get credit for that important invention?

Your assignment is to summarize the Whitney's claim in a well written paragraph, as well as the three other claims from the Smithsonian lesson. Then explain who has the best claim to be the "real" inventor, and explain your reasons.

Constitution Center Webcast

1. Why is learning about the Founders, and studying the Constitution and Bill of Rights important?

2. What did you like about participating in a webcast?

Federalists vs. Anti-Federalists

Who had better ideas, the Federalists or the Anti-Federalists? Write a well written paragraph expressing your opinion, and have at least 3 supporting reasons.

Reflection: Articles of Confederation

1. Write down 3 things you learned about the Articles of Confederation

2. Why did it fail?

3. How could it have been changed to make it more successful?

4. If you made it easier to pass laws, how would you protect against a law taking away people's liberties?

Revolutionary Women

Women played a key role in helping America win the Revolutionary War. Women boycotted British goods, made bullets and uniforms for the army, became spies for General Washington, and even fought in battles, besides keeping farms and homes running.

Four of the most famous revolutionary women are Abigail Adams, Deborah Sampson, Mercy Otis Warren, and Phyllis Wheatly.

Your assignment is to write a persuasive paragraph about the woman assigned to you and your partner, telling:
1. What contributions did she make to the cause of American independence?
2. Why is it important that 8th graders study her? What can they learn from her life and deeds?

What do Americans believe in?

Among all the nations of the world, the United States is unique. Americans have many different skins colors, worship many different religions, and speak many different languages. Thinking of it another way, if you or I moved to China or France, we would probably not become Chinese or French, but if someone moved from China or France to the US, they would become an American.

So, talk to your partner, and list 4 things that you think Americans believe in, and explain your answers (tell why you think that).

Happy 223rd Birthday, Constitution!

Today, the Constitution is 223 years old. It is the oldest Constitution in the world. Think about two of the rights we studied today: habeas corpus and trial by jury.

What might things be like in the United States if we didn't have those rights?