The Dawn’s Early Light: The Defense of Fort McHenry and Courage

In this lesson, students will learn about the courageous efforts of Major Armistead and the soldiers at Fort McHenry during the War of 1812. They will also think about ways in which they can be courageous in their own lives.

Walk-In-The-Shoes Questions
As you read, imagine you are the protagonist.

• What challenges are you facing?
• What fears or concerns might you have?
• What may prevent you from acting in the way you ought?

Observation Questions

• Who was Major George Armistead? What was his role at Fort McHenry?
• What was Major Armistead’s purpose during the battle?
• What courageous actions did Armistead and his men take during the battle?
• How did Major Armistead and the soldiers at Fort McHenry fight for freedom for themselves and others?

Discussion Questions
Discuss the following questions with your students.

• What is the historical context of the narrative?
• What historical circumstances presented a challenge to the protagonist?
• How and why did the individual exhibit a moral and/or civic virtue in facing and overcoming the challenge?
• How did the exercise of the virtue benefit civil society?
• How might exercise of the virtue benefit the protagonist?
• What might the exercise of the virtue cost the protagonist?
• Would you react the same under similar circumstances? Why or why not?
• How can you act similarly in your own life? What obstacles must you overcome in order to do so?

• Students will analyze the courageous actions of Major Armistead and the soldiers at Fort McHenry.
• Students will understand the virtue of courage and how they can be courageous in their own lives.
• Students will apply their knowledge in making courageous decisions.