by Thomas Jefferson 1787

Welcome to the parent guide for this text! Read below to find out about what your child is reading in class and how you can support him/her at home.

This week in class, we’re reading "Thomas Jefferson on Shays' Rebellion" by Thomas Jefferson.

In this 1787 letter, Jefferson writes to a friend about Shays' Rebellion, an armed uprising that took place in Massachusetts because of increasing dissatisfaction with State and Federal government. He argues that rebellion is necessary for the preservation of democratic societies.

As we read, we will be discussing the theme of Social Change & Revolution as it relates to the text. We are trying to answer this big question :

"How do people create change?"

Ways to support your child:

  • Ask your child about this letter at home:
    • What was "Thomas Jefferson on Shays' Rebellion" about?
    • What did you learn about Social Change & Revolution?
  • Watch Shay's Rebellion Explained by HipHughes at home with your child.