The Era of Good Feelings

Kara·

History

Preview

At a Glance

Grade Level8th Grade

SubjectHistory

Original Prompt

Create a slideshow about the Era of Good Feelings (1817-1825). Include slides on the introduction and context under James Monroe, primary source analysis comparing his Inaugural Address with the Missouri Compromise, the economic impact of the Panic of 1819, and a final section on evaluating historical labels based on inclusivity, stability, and duration.

This teacher guide outlines a lesson plan designed to evaluate the historical period known as the "Era of Good Feelings" (1817-1825) during James Monroe's presidency. The lesson engages students with key primary sources, such as Monroe's Inaugural Address and the Missouri Compromise, to dissect the themes of national unity, sectionalism, and the socio-economic realities of the time. Students will analyze contrasting perspectives through activities like document analysis, group discussions, and a class debate, exploring questions about the inclusivity and stability of this period. Core learning targets include developing critical thinking and evidence-based reasoning skills, and the lesson culminates in students proposing an alternative name for this era while considering whose voices may have been marginalized in the historical narrative.