Artifact Analysis Activity

Question

Learning Target: I can analyze historical evidence using the process of historical inquiry.
To meet the learning target...
I will source, contextualize, closely read, and ask questions about each document.
I will use four primary sources to determine the answer to how the patriots made the case against British rule.
In this assignment, you will continue to explore the answer to Lesson 2.2's main question: How did “patriots” make a case against British rule? In Lesson 2.2, you went through the process of historical inquiry using the painting of the Boston Massacre. You looked at sourcing the painting and put it into historical context ("contextualizing"). Next, you answered a series of questions that allowed you to dig deeper into the artifact (close reading). Finally, you asked questions of the documents in order to research further into the painting.

Click HERE to make a copy of the document that you will use to complete this assignment. You will see four (4) artifacts at the bottom. These are the artifacts that you will need to examine. For each artifact, follow the process presented in Lesson 2.2 to source, contextualize, closely read, and monitor/question each artifact. The questions that you need to ask yourself for each step and an example is provided in Lesson 2.2. Finally, once you have completed these steps in the table, answer the lesson question in 5 or more full and complete sentences: How did “patriots” make a case against British rule?

When you have completed the document, hit the blue 'share' button to share a copy with your teacher and then upload your work into the submission drop box.

Answer 1

Certainly! Here’s a general guide on how you can approach the Artifact Analysis Activity using the process of historical inquiry for each of the artifacts.

Artifact Analysis Process:

1. Source:

   • Who created the artifact? Research the creator and their background. Were they a patriot or loyalist? What was their motivation?
   • When was it created? Check the date of creation and consider how it relates to the events happening at that time.
   • What type of document is it? Is it a painting, letter, pamphlet, or newspaper article? Understanding the nature of the artifact is vital.

2. Contextualize:

   • What was happening in society at the time? Look at the political, social, and economic factors influencing the creation of the artifact.
   • What events led to this work being created? Think about the relationship between the colonies and Britain leading up to this document/artifact.
   • What was the public sentiment like? Consider public opinion regarding British rule and how this may have influenced the artifact.

3. Close Read:

   • What does the artifact say? Analyze the language used, symbols, and themes portrayed.
   • What arguments or messages are present? Identify key points made by the author/artist.
   • How does the artifact reflect the perspective of the patriots? Look for rhetoric that supports independence and critiques British authority.

4. Ask Questions:

   • What questions arise after examining the artifact? Consider gaps in information or areas where further research may be necessary.
   • How does this piece compare to other evidence? Look for contradictions or corroborations with other historical evidence.
   • What assumptions does it make? Reflect on the perspectives and biases inherent in the artifact.

Conclusion - How did “patriots” make a case against British rule?

In conclusion, patriots used various strategies to articulate their case against British rule. Firstly, they employed persuasive rhetoric, emphasizing liberty and natural rights, highlighting the violation of these principles by British authority. The use of powerful visual representations, such as paintings of events like the Boston Massacre, helped evoke emotional responses and galvanize support for their cause. Pamphlets and written documents circulated widely to spread their anti-British sentiments and mobilize public opinion against oppressive acts like the Stamp Act and Intolerable Acts. Moreover, they framed their arguments through the lens of historical precedents, drawing parallels to past oppressions and injustices. By combining emotional appeals, rational arguments, and a call to action, patriots effectively united colonists in their quest for independence from British rule.

Once you've analyzed all four artifacts using the provided framework, make sure to compile your findings neatly in the document before sharing it with your teacher and submitting your work. Good luck!