League of Revolutionary Black Workers
This lesson is designed to introduce students to the history of the League of Revolutionary Black Workers through close examination of a set of archival documents. The purpose of these assignments is to give students the opportunity to interpret history from first-hand accounts of materials produced by League members themselves. Secondary reading is available at the end of each lesson to provide historical context; however, the focus throughout should remain on the primary source materials. It is with those sources that students will be able to form original questions and think critically about the specific conditions that gave rise to the LRBW. Students will come away with a clear understanding of why the LRBW emerged, its specific grievances and the tactics used by members to advance their cause. It is important to keep in mind that members of the League – like all historical actors – can be best understood when situated within a particular time and place.