Potato Famine
From: Zinn Education Project
Grade Level: HS, (College)
Remote Ready: With Modifications
Time: 1-2 class periods
Length of Reading: Paragraphs
Link: Hunger on Trial: An Activity on the Irish Potato Famine and Its meaning for Today
Students are divided into 5 groups, each representing one of the following: Irish Tenant Farmers, British Landlords, British Government, Anglican Church, or the system of Colonial Capitalism. Just like "The People vs. Columbus, et al," activity, students defend their group vs charges of genocide and indicate which group they find guilty. Each group is given a paragraph of background on their group. You might consider adding your own reading assignment on the Potato Famine.
More Information:
Grade Level:
HS, (College): This lesson is meant for high school students; however we think it would be well suited for college students too
This Activity Involves:
Secondary Source: This activity utilizes secondary sources.
Group Work: This activity calls for working in pairs or groups or having a group discussion.
A mural on Whiterock Road in Belfast commemorating the Irish famine. Source: Public domain.
