Who Was Andrew Johnson?

Contributor: Nichole Brooker. Lesson ID: 11130

The man who took over for President Lincoln had big shoes to fill, and they didn't seem to fit. Andrew Johnson was neither well-liked nor well-respected. Write about what you would do in his shoes!

categories

United States

subject
History
learning style
Visual
personality style
Otter
Grade Level
Intermediate (3-5)
Lesson Type
Quick Query

Lesson Plan - Get It!

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Andrew Johnson was the 17th President of the United States, and the first president to take office after the sitting president was assassinated. He also was not well liked by the House of Representatives and was the first president impeached. His legacy is quite tarnished! Discover how his presidency was full of trials and tribulations.

  • Have you ever heard of Andrew Johnson?

You may have never heard his name before, because his presidency came after (arguably) the best president in the history of the United States — President Lincoln.

While watching President Andrew Johnson Biography (below), take notes on the positive attributes of Johnson so you can be successful in the following activity:

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Put yourself in President Johnson's shoes.

  • Do you believe that who you followed in your presidency directly impacts the public opinion of you?
  • Do you feel as though you could have changed your legacy even if you tried?
  • Create a manifesto (mission statement) to present to the American people as if you were running for president (which Johnson didn't). This manifesto should include what you will do to strengthen the U.S. and the government. Be sure to be specific in your goals and how you will achieve them.

Share your manifesto with an adult or peer. Check out the next section to see if you discovered the same facts about President Johnson.

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