Deadly Aim: The Civil War Story of Michigan's Anishinaabe Sharpshooters
What’s inside...
In 'Deadly Aim,' Sally M. Walker highlights the contributions of over 20,000 American Indians in the Civil War, focusing on the Anishinaabe sharpshooters from Michigan. These soldiers, despite facing discrimination and loss of their lands, displayed remarkable heroism in battle. The book, rich with archival photographs, maps, and firsthand accounts, includes the story of Company K and Chief Daniel Mwakewenah's exceptional bravery. Walker's research involved consultations with various cultural centers and museums to authentically represent these marginalized soldiers.
Age
10-14
Length
304 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think the Anishinaabe sharpshooters felt fighting in the Civil War?
What challenges did the Anishinaabe sharpshooters face, and how did they overcome them?
Why is it important to remember and learn about the contributions of different groups, like the Anishinaabe, in history?
How did the skills and traditions of the Anishinaabe people contribute to their role in the war?
What can we learn from the bravery and skills of the Anishinaabe sharpshooters?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine being in the shoes of the Anishinaabe sharpshooters, discussing their possible thoughts and feelings during the war.
Discuss the significance of diversity and inclusion, using the Anishinaabe sharpshooters as an example of different groups contributing to a common cause.
Explore the historical context of the Civil War together, helping your child understand the broader scenario in which the Anishinaabe sharpshooters operated.
Highlight the values of courage and resilience shown by the Anishinaabe sharpshooters, discussing how these values can be applied in your child’s everyday life.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience and perseverance
Explanation: The Anishinaabe sharpshooters show remarkable resilience and perseverance throughout the Civil War despite facing numerous challenges.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to persevere through their own challenges, whether in school or personal life, understanding the value of persistence and determination.
Example Lesson: Cultural diversity and recognition
Explanation: The book highlights the contributions of the Anishinaabe, an Indigenous group, demonstrating the importance of recognizing and valuing diverse cultures in history.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by appreciating and respecting cultural differences in their communities and learning environments.
Example Lesson: Courage in the face of adversity
Explanation: The Anishinaabe sharpshooters displayed immense courage as they played a critical role during the war, often in dire circumstances.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of bravery when confronting difficulties and encourages them to stand up for what is right.
Example Lesson: Historical awareness and learning from the past
Explanation: By uncovering the lesser-known narratives of the Anishinaabe sharpshooters, this book enhances historical awareness.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of history in shaping the present and future, helping them become more informed and thoughtful individuals.
Example Lesson: Teamwork and collaboration
Explanation: The collective efforts of the Anishinaabe sharpshooters serve as a prime example of what can be achieved when people work together towards a common goal.
Real-World Application: This can be mirrored in children’s group activities, teaching them the value of teamwork in achieving shared objectives.