Social Studies: Tuskegee Airmen

Developed by Allie H.

Edited by Miranda C.

Essential Question

How did the Tuskegee Airmen impact our Nation’s history?   

Background Knowledge

Students should know about the racial issues that were present during the time of World War II (WWII). Some of those issues were:

  • Jim Crow laws still in place
  • segregation
  • mistreatment
  • oppression
  • etc.  

They should also have a basic understanding of why WWII happened and everything that the war involved. (Ex. It was fought in Europe, the US got involved later, planes were used, nurses were needed, etc.)

Materials

  1. Access to technology and internet

Safety Protocol

Students should ask for parent/guardian permission before using technology and the internet. 

Activity Procedures

Step 1: Explore the History.com page about the Tuskegee Airmen. This page highlights the team that became trained pilots for the US Military during World War II. Their work during this time paved the way for integrating the U.S. armed forces.

What historical significance did the Tuskegee Airmen symbolize? 

Step 2: Consider a time in you life when you have had to stand up and fight for what you believe even when others thought you could not. If you are having trouble thinking of this in your own life, consider interviewing someone in your life that might have experienced this.

Why did these men experience hardship and push back when forming their organization?     

Step 3: Write a reflective essay about your experience or the experience of the person you interviewed. Compare your experience to the Tuskegee Airmen in your writing.

What change did these Airmen eventually bring about?   

Step 4: Consider the overall change that the Tuskegee Airmen brought about in the United States. What change did your experience bring? Include this in your essay.

Step 5: Publish your essay by editing, revising, and adding a picture (optional). Share with friends and family.

Step 6: With parent/guardian permission, share the results of your activity on social media using #AUHomeWorks!