Analyzing a Photograph of Harriet Tubman
Recommended Activity
Published By:
National Archives Foundation
Historical Era:
Civil War and Reconstruction (1850-1877)
Thinking Skill:
Historical Analysis & Interpretation
Bloom’s Taxonomy:
Analyzing
Grade Level:
Upper Elementary
Suggested Teaching Instructions
Using the activity questions, lead students through the photograph analysis and discussion about the details they observe in this 1870s photo of Harriet Tubman, taken by Harvey B. Lindsley in Auburn, New York. Ask student to consider whether the photograph conveys the many roles and jobs Harriet Tubman had during her life. For grades 3-5. Approximate time needed is 30 minutes.
As with any primary source analysis, ask students to go through the following progression, as outlined in the activity:
- Meet the document.
- Observe its parts.
- Try to make sense of it.
- Use it as historical evidence.
You may wish to draw students’ attention to the details on Harriet Tubman’s dress, what is on the chair, what is on the table, and the studio setting. Do the items in the photograph send a message about who Harriet Tubman was?
To the extent possible under law, National Archives Foundation has waived all copyright and related or neighboring rights to “Analyzing a Photograph of Harriet Tubman”
Description
In this activity, students will answer questions to help them analyze a photograph of Harriet Tubman. Students will consider whether a photograph can convey the roles and jobs a person has.
