Analyzing a Revolutionary Source

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Describe it as if you were explaining it to someone who can’t see it. Think about: Is it handwritten or typed? Is it all by the same person? Are there stamps or other marks? What else do you see on it?

Who read/received it?

What do you think the text written halfway down and sideways (by the A and N columns) means? Explain your reasoning.

Try to make sense of it

What is it talking about?

Write one sentence summarizing this document.

Why did the author write it?

Quote evidence from the document that tells you this.

What was happening at the time in history this document was created?

What details of the document are difficult to understand?

Use it as historical evidence

What did you find out from this document that you might not learn anywhere else?

What other documents or historical evidence are you going to use to help you understand this event or topic?

After the Continental Congress voted to approve the Lee Resolution on July 2, 1776, John Adams remarked:

The Second Day of July 1776, will be the most memorable Epocha, in the History of America.—I am apt to believe that it will be celebrated, by succeeding Generations, as the great anniversary Festival. It ought to be commemorated, as the Day of Deliverance by solemn Acts of Devotion to God Almighty. It ought to be solemnized with Pomp and Parade, with Shews, Games, Sports, Guns, Bells, Bonfires and Illuminations from one End of this Continent to the other from this Time forward forever more.

Do you think that July 2nd should be celebrated as Independence Day instead of July 4th? Why or why not? Explain.

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Meet the document

Observe its parts

Try to make sense of it

Use it as historical evidence

When you're done

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