We had a two-week Loyalists versus Patriots simulation in US history. I can’t say enough good things.
Here are some highlights:
-booing the request not to boo
-making fun of old-fashioned language
-cracking jokes about the redcoats eating too much
-Parents bringing flags for Great Britain- cheering, booing
-the crowd getting out of hand
-a very stirring speech about losing one’s job in Boston
-ALL of the speeches- the material we are learning is very challenging. We’re reading John Locke and basically every other word is in antiquated, college-level language. They made so much sense of it!! And tried so hard. And it totally paid off.
-The mob was a failure, but looking for tea was not.
-The ‘tarring and feathering’. When you get tarred and feathered, you have to wear a really heinous pink and yellow wig and oversized party sunglasses and walk around the block, while Congress members yell old-fashioned insults at you. It was the day after Halloween. Our ‘victim’ (who was a great sport by the way) basically sprinted around the block, but everyone in the neighborhood and at the park gawked at us and it was hilarious.
-the unanimous roar when it was suggested that women and laborers should get the right to vote. Seriously, parents jumping and dancing
-the costumes!
-the wigs!
-the alliances!
-the complaining!
-In a surprising turn of events, the Loyalists won and New York voted against independence from Britain. It was a huge victory for the Loyalists because there were only two of them against three Patriots in our version. Historical simulations are full of surprises.
Hope you’re well.
You Are What You Say You Are 