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Dred Scott v. Sandford (1857)

Lesson Plan

This mini-lesson covers the basics of the Supreme Court decision that determined that Dred Scott, having lived in a free territory, was not entitled to his freedom. Students learn about the impact of the Court’s decision, and how it was a stepping-stone to the Civil War. Students also examine the 13th, 14th, and 15th Amendments which overturned the decision, and the black codes that were passed in some states to weaken them.

iCivics en español! Student and class materials for this lesson are available in Spanish.

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Dred Scott v. Sandford (1857) Lesson Plan - Facts of the Case
Dred Scott v. Sandford (1857) Lesson Plan Activities

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