Elk v. Wilkins (1884)
Lesson Plan
This mini-lesson examines the Supreme Court’s ruling that the 14th Amendment’s Citizenship Clause did not apply to American Indians born on Native…
Overview
This mini-lesson examines the Supreme Court’s ruling that the 14th Amendment’s Citizenship Clause did not apply to American Indians born on Native reservations. Students analyze a primary document and discover how the lack of citizenship affected the lives and cultures of Native Americans.
Grade Levels
- 6-8
- 9-12
Learning Objectives
- Explain the 14th Amendment’s definition of citizenship
- Identify the main arguments in the case
- Describe the rationale behind the Supreme Court’s decision
- Identify the impact of the Court’s decision on American Indians in the United States