The Granger Movement, a widespread and influential American social and political movement in the late 19th century, played a significant role in shaping the economic and political landscape of its time. Providing students with an understanding of this historical event is essential for them to develop a deeper perspective on U.S. history and the influence of grassroots movements on shaping policy. This article aims to provide teachers with insights on how to effectively introduce the Granger Movement to their students.
Historical Background
Before diving into the intricacies of the movement, it’s crucial that students have a solid understanding of the historical context. In the post-Civil War period, agricultural communities in rural America faced various challenges such as high railroad shipping rates, volatile crop prices, and a sense of political powerlessness. The National Grange of the Patrons of Husbandry—better known as “The Grange”—was established in 1867 by Oliver Hudson Kelley as a response to these challenges.
Ensure that your students grasp the reasons behind the Granger Movement’s emergence and how it sought to create an organized voice for farmers.
Teaching Strategies
1. Encourage research: Assign your students topics related to the Granger Movement for them to research independently or in groups. For instance, they could study specific acts or policies passed under its influence or prominent leaders within the movement. By immersing themselves in these subjects, students can build a strong foundation and connect with various aspects of the movement.
2. Host debates: Organize debates among your class about key issues central to the Granger Movement, like railroad regulation or cooperatives’ effectiveness. This interactive approach allows students to view these historical topics from multiple perspectives and improve their critical thinking skills.
3. Utilize primary sources: Examine primary sources such as letters, speeches, and newspapers from the time that document or comment on events related to the movement. This will help students gain a firsthand understanding of the contemporary thoughts and opinions around the movement.
4. Watch documentaries or historical dramas: Visually engaging resources, including documentaries or relevant historical films, can be an excellent tool to pique student interest and offer additional context about the realities of life during the Granger Movement.
5. Draw connections to modern issues: Encourage your students to identify any parallels between the challenges faced by farmers in the late 19th century and modern issues affecting either agriculture or other industries today. Drawing such connections helps make history feel more relevant and applicable, as well as demonstrates how grassroots movements can drive change.
