When teaching about the Civil Rights Movement, many classrooms naturally focus on Martin Luther King, and rightly so. But the movement was powered by many leaders.

One powerful way to deepen students’ understanding of this important period in history is by teaching about the life of Jesse Jackson. His story helps students understand that social change takes many voices, many leaders and continued effort. Our close reading activities below are a perfect introduction to the inspirational leader.

Jesse Jackson worked closely with Dr. King during the Civil Rights Movement and later became a major advocate for voting rights, education, economic equality, and social justice.

Expanding Civil Rights Beyond One Leader

Many elementary lessons focus primarily on Dr. King. While that foundation is essential, adding Jesse Jackson helps students understand how the Civil Rights Movement was a collective effort and that social justice work did not end in the 1960s. These biography writing units allow the students to understand the leader even more and create a wonderful piece of writing in the process.

Teaching multiple leaders strengthens historical understanding and prevents oversimplification. If you already use Martin Luther King resources in your classroom, adding Jesse Jackson creates a natural extension lesson. For lots more engaging resources that focus on the Civil Rights Movement, just click the picture below.

All of our resources at Creative Primary Literacy can help you to bring learning to life in your classroom!