The History of the Lincoln Memorial
In The History of the Lincoln Memorial, historian Lucy Worsley investigates how the Northern Union Forces defeated the Southern Confederates in the Civil War. She visits the Lincoln Memorial and learns that the 36 columns represent the 36 states that were in the Union after the war. This video is excerpted from BBC's American History's Biggest Fibs with Lucy Worsley, in which Worsley reveals the myths and manipulations behind American history.
Lesson Express
Q: Why was the Civil War so significant?
A: The Civil War was important because it determined the survival of the United States as a unified nation. It was fought over deeply rooted issues like slavery, states' rights, and the future of the Union. The Union victory not only preserved the United States, but it also led to the abolition of slavery through the 13th Amendment.
Q: What is the significance of the 36 columns on the Lincoln Memorial?
A: The 36 columns of the Lincoln Memorial represent the 36 states in the Union at the time of Abraham Lincoln’s death in 1865. These columns symbolize the unity of the nation, which Lincoln fought to preserve during the Civil War.
Q: Do you think Lincoln is heroic for his leadership during the Civil War?
A: Student responses will vary. Many people consider Lincoln heroic for his leadership during the Civil War. He faced immense pressure and deep divisions within the country but remained committed to preserving the Union.
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In Lincoln's Legacy, historian Lucy Worsley looks at a re-assessment of Lincoln's legacy. Although he helped free enslaved people, he always did what was in the best interests of his own race. This video is excerpted from BBC's American History's Biggest Fibs with Lucy Worsley, in which Worsley reveals the myths and manipulations behind American history.
In Abraham Lincoln and the Emancipation Proclamation, historian Lucy Worsley takes a look at the document drafted by Lincoln in 1863 that promised freedom from enslavement. However, it was only promised in rebel Southern states. Evidence suggests that Lincoln's main aim was to save the Union, not to end slavery. This video is excerpted from BBC's American History's Biggest Fibs with Lucy Worsley, in which Worsley reveals the myths and manipulations behind American history.