Deceleration of Independence (Break Up Letter)
Introduction
This is one of my favorite lesson plans of each year. It is also one the students bring up over and over again later. I start class by telling my students that I do not find many notes anymore but my policy has always been to read aloud in front of everybody.
Next, I pull out of my pocket a note I found before the current class period. I explain again how upset I am at this behavior, to which I am eagerly interrupted by the students, “READ IT! READ IT! READ IT!”
I hesitate and sell it as if I don’t want to read it, but eventually I give in to the pleas of the students.
I had my wife write the note so it looks real. I even got it wet once and the ink ran. The following is the text of the note I use. You can find many others.
Letter
G,
I’m not sure how to start this letter, but I feel we need to talk. I’ve been thinking about us a lot lately. Things used to be so great. It was like we were MFEO. I mean, everyone said it was perfect. I really thought we’d be together forever, but then things changed. I feel like you started taking me for granted. You just started to do whatever you wanted and never asked me about anything or how I felt. I’ve been thinking about this for a while, and I don’t want to hurt your feelings, but I think it’s time we broke up. I mean, it’s just not going to work. I need some time by myself to see what it is like on my own. I’m sorry things didn’t work out, but I do think YOU are the one to blame. Sorry but “us” is over.
American Colonies
Extension
Have the students brainstorm on reasons a couple breaks up. For example, cheating, taking advantage of, etc… Have them then map them to the reasons for deceleration of independence. October 25, 1760 Britain tightens control and replaces all government officials with ones loyal to the crown.
- Differences in values and goals: In a relationship, couples may find themselves growing apart due to conflicting values, interests, or long-term goals. Similarly, during the American Revolution, the colonists’ desires for self-governance and representation clashed with the British government’s attempts to maintain control and extract resources from the colonies without granting them sufficient rights and autonomy.
- Lack of communication and understanding: Poor communication and an inability to understand each other’s perspectives can strain a couple’s relationship. In the case of the colonies and England, the British government often made decisions without taking into account the concerns and grievances of the colonists. This lack of effective communication and understanding contributed to a growing sense of resentment and frustration among the colonists.
- Power imbalances: Power imbalances within a relationship can lead to dissatisfaction and ultimately a breakup. Similarly, the American colonists felt increasingly oppressed by the perceived heavy-handedness of British rule. They resented policies such as taxation without representation and the presence of British troops, which they saw as a violation of their rights.
- Desire for independence and self-determination: One or both partners in a relationship might seek independence and autonomy, leading to a breakup. Likewise, the American colonies, over time, developed a strong sense of identity and a desire for self-determination. They believed they could govern themselves more effectively and independently, which led to the pursuit of separation from England.
- Escalation of conflict: In some cases, a series of conflicts and unresolved issues can strain a relationship to the breaking point. Similarly, the grievances and tensions between the colonies and England escalated over time, fueled by events such as the Stamp Act, the Boston Massacre, and the Intolerable Acts. These conflicts eventually reached a tipping point, culminating in the American Revolution.