An Educational Resource
We The People (WTP)
Engaging lesson plans covering the American Revolution — from the Stamp Act of 1765 to the inauguration of the first US Government in 1789.
1765 – 1789
We The People —
An Educational Resource
The events that occurred from 1765 to 1789 are representative of a pivotal period in the history of the United States of America. Dissatisfaction over taxation without representation, the restriction of civil liberties, and the denial of self-governance led the thirteen colonies to rebel.
The protests led by the Sons of Liberty resulted in the Declaration of Independence in 1776. The victory of the Patriots in the Revolutionary War led to the formation of the United States as a sovereign nation.
The legacy of the American Revolution is still relevant today in the form of the United States Constitution, which remains the supreme law of the land.
For Educators
Lesson Plans
Lesson plans are provided covering key events between the year 1765 and the inauguration of the first USA Government in 1789.
Content is designed for students in the age range of 8 to 15. The lessons focus on encouraging students to participate in group discussions and debates on the topics introduced.
Each lesson is between 45 to 55 minutes in length. A video with accompanying lyrics to support key learning outcomes linked to the curriculum is included in each of the lessons. Printable worksheets are also available.
The resource can be introduced to students as part of a history, social studies or civics class.
Topics Covered
Below are three of the topics covered by this resource
3 of 16 lessons now available — more coming soon.
The Sons of Liberty
Discover how a group of American colonists called the Sons of Liberty organized resistance against British rule. Students explore the causes of colonial unrest, the role of key figures like Samuel Adams, and how grassroots protest shaped the path to revolution.
The Boston Tea Party
In 1773, colonists disguised as Mohawk warriors dumped 342 chests of British tea into Boston Harbor. Students examine why this act of defiance was a turning point in the American Revolution and how it united the colonies against British taxation.
The Fourth of July
On July 4, 1776, the Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence, formally declaring the thirteen colonies free from British rule. Students explore the ideas of Thomas Jefferson, the influence of Enlightenment thinking, and what independence meant for future generations.
Educator Feedback
“I enjoyed using the WTP resource with my Year 4/5 class. After watching the video, students broke into groups to further discuss the content. It was great to hear the views of different students on the topics introduced.
“I like the format of the lesson plans and the flexibility in the delivery of the content. From the lesson plan template, I can choose how to best structure a lesson to meet the abilities of my students.
“This resource was perfect for my mixed Year 5/6 class. I found the shyer students were more comfortable to use their voice and have an opinion on the content when working in small groups.
Ready to bring history to life?
Free lesson plans for history, social studies and civics classes. Suitable for Elementary and Secondary students aged 8–15.