Instructional Video

On This Day: Life and Contributions of Alexander Hamilton

Curated and Reviewed by Lesson Planet

Historians have been fascinated by Alexander Hamilton long before he was the subject of a Broadway hit. Using video resources, scholars explore how his early upbringing as an orphan and social outcast may have influenced his role in the American Revolution and contributions to the early American republic. Other clips include re-enactors and even exploration of the now-famous duel that took Hamilton's life. 

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CCSS: Adaptable
Instructional Ideas
  • View the opening number of the Broadway musical Hamilton and then use the video resources to discuss the accuracy of the characterization 
  • Have pupils create annotated timelines of Hamilton's life and legacy
Classroom Considerations
  • To view and use the resources, create a free C-SPAN Classroom account or the use of the following login credentials: Username: students, Password: C-SPANCLASSROOM
Pros
  • Videos add depth to a story currently gripping the imagination of adults and young people alike
  • Resources offer a variety of framework to talk about Hamilton
Cons
  • None