Barry Goldwater was a prominent figure in American politics during the 20th century, and his philosophy of conservatism left a lasting impact on the nation’s political landscape. Teaching students about Goldwater’s life, career, and beliefs is an important task, as it provides valuable insights into the evolution of modern American conservatism. The following guide will examine Barry Goldwater’s significance, how to engage students in learning about him, and educational resources available to help guide your lessons.
The Importance of Barry Goldwater
Barry Morris Goldwater (1909-1998) was a Senator from Arizona and the Republican Party nominee for President of the United States in the 1964 election. Although he lost the race to President Lyndon B. Johnson, Goldwater’s campaign laid the groundwork for the conservative movement in America. His strong support for smaller government, lower taxes, and states’ rights resonated with many Americans who felt disillusioned by growing federal intervention.
Teaching Strategies for Engaging Students
1. Personalizing Goldwater – It is essential to humanize historical figures so that students can better understand their motivations and perspectives. Share stories from Goldwater’s early life, including his upbringing in Arizona and family background. Discussing his hobbies such as photography and ham radio can also help show students that he was more than just a politician.
2. Debates and Discussions – Encourage students to analyze and question Goldwater’s views on various issues such as civil rights, social welfare programs, and foreign policy. Facilitate debates between students who support different positions on these subjects to foster critical thinking skills and an appreciation for dialogue.
3. Multimedia Presentations – Use video clips from historical news footage or documentaries focusing on Barry Goldwater or his 1964 presidential campaign. This helps create a more immersive experience for students that goes beyond textbook facts.
4. Comparing Goldwater’s Ideas to Modern Politicians – To show the continuing relevance of Goldwater’s ideas, ask students to compare his positions with those of contemporary politicians. This exercise can help them understand how his ideas have evolved and developed over time within the Republican Party.
Educational Resources
1. “Conscience of a Conservative” – Barry Goldwater’s influential 1960 book clearly outlines his political beliefs and serves as a core text for understanding his philosophy.
2. “Before the Storm: Barry Goldwater and the Unmaking of the American Consensus” by Rick Perlstein – A comprehensive biography that traces both Goldwater’s life and the broader political climate that led to the rise of modern conservatism.
3. The Barry & Peggy Goldwater Center for Democracy – This non-profit organization in Phoenix, Arizona, is dedicated to preserving Goldwater’s legacy and offers educational materials for teachers to use in their classrooms.
Conclusion
Barry Goldwater had a profound impact on shaping modern American conservative thought and policy, making him a significant figure in American history. By using a variety of teaching strategies and educational resources, educators can engage students in learning about this influential politician, fostering greater understanding of American political history, and promoting critical thinking about the issues that continue to shape the nation today.
