It’s About Time

Many events occurred in the colonies before they declared independence from England. Read some of the major events in this timeline (1764-1775 or 1776-1789). Work with your group to create your own portion of our classroom visual timeline. Mark a check next to your assigned year(s).

 

On your timeline, be sure to include important dates, a short description of why each event was important, and graphics to help us all remember the events. Be prepared to share your timeline with the class.

Click on the painting “The Signing of the Declaration of Independence” on this webpage to enlarge it. Think about the story that the picture tells. Write your answers to these questions on the handout given to you.

1. Who are these men?

2. How are they dressed?

3. Why do you think some of the men are sitting and some are standing?

4. Do you think that all of the papers on the table are parts of the Declaration of Independence?

5. There are 3 men standing in the background who seem to be talking with one another quietly. What might they be discussing?

6. What story do the faces of the men tell? Do you think they’re all feeling the same way about signing the Declaration of Independence?

7. Describe the flag in the picture. Why do you think that the artist decided to include the flag in this painting?

Documents from the Continental Congress and the Constitutional Convention:
Library of Congress