IV. Discussion Questions

  1. There is a controversy about the race of Huckleberry Finn. After reading the novel, what are your conclusions: is he black or white? What makes you say this?

  2. How do you think the United States would have developed if slavery had not been implemented? Think about economical, political, social, and cultural ramifications.

  3. In what ways did the rebellions affect the treatment of the slaves? Were they treated better or worse, overall? Why do you think this is so?

  4. If you were a slave in the pre-Civil War era, would you have rebelled? Why or why not? Don't forget, you have a family, and you may fear for your life if your attempt is unsuccessful.

  5. Was Thomas Jefferson really a racist, or were his racist views merely spoken for the sake of his political career?

  6. What are some of the contradictions in Thomas Jefferson's views on slavery?

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