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Abraham Lincoln Assassination — Reading Comprehension

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Grades

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HSS 8.10.7
8.11
RI.6-8.1
RI.6-8.2

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This passage explores the significant event of President Abraham Lincoln's assassination in April 1865, just days after the Civil War ended. Students will learn how John Wilkes Booth's actions shocked the nation, leading to a period of national mourning and impacting the course of Reconstruction in the South. The passage addresses the motivations behind the assassination, the immediate aftermath, and the lasting consequences for the United States. It aligns with history standard HSS 8.10.7, 8.11 and Common Core ELA standards RI.6-8.1, RI.6-8.2. The resource includes a rigorous main passage, a simplified differentiated version, Spanish translations of both, a comprehensive glossary, multiple-choice and writing activities, graphic organizers, and a timeline. A read aloud audio and a public domain image enhance accessibility and engagement. This passage is ideal for supporting historical analysis, vocabulary development, and understanding the complexities of U.S. history during the Reconstruction era.

CONTENT PREVIEW

"Assassination of President A. Lincoln, April 14th 1865 at Ford's theater, Washington, D.C." by Gibson & Co. (Cincinnati, Ohio) / Library of Congress.

On April 14, 1865, just days after the American Civil War ended, President Abraham Lincoln was shot by John Wilkes Booth while attending a play at Ford's Theatre in Washington, D.C. This assassination was a tragic event that shocked the nation. The Civil War had caused deep divisions between the North and South, and Lincoln had worked tirelessly to reunite the country. Booth, a well-known actor and Confederate sympathizer, believed that killing Lincoln would help the South regain power. His actions, however, had the opposite effect, leading to national mourning and greater challenges for the South.

The tragedy of Lincoln's death created immediate uncertainty in the government. Vice President Andrew Johnson became president, but he did not share all of Lincoln's plans for Reconstruction—the process of rebuilding the South and reuniting the nation. Many Americans wondered if the peace Lincoln had hoped for would last. The assassination raised questions about how to treat former Confederate states and what rights newly freed African Americans would have. The country faced a complex problem: how to heal old wounds while promoting justice and unity.

One major consequence of Lincoln's assassination was a harsher approach to Reconstruction. Radical Republicans in Congress wanted to punish the South more severely. They passed laws making it difficult for Southern states to rejoin the Union unless they met strict requirements. This created tension between President Johnson and Congress, resulting in political conflict and slow progress. The aftermath of Lincoln’s death made it harder for the country to move forward peacefully.

Booth's plan was not just to kill Lincoln. He and his co-conspirators also targeted other leaders, hoping to create chaos in the government. Although Booth was captured and killed days later, the sense of national vulnerability remained. The United States had to balance the need for order with the desire for justice. Citizens felt both anger and sorrow, and the government struggled to find solutions that respected Lincoln’s vision of unity.

The assassination of Abraham Lincoln changed American history. It intensified debates over civil rights and the future of the South. While Lincoln had urged a spirit of forgiveness, his death led to policies that deepened divisions. The nation learned that leadership matters, especially during times of crisis. The tragedy also reminded Americans that violence can have far-reaching, unintended consequences.

Interesting Fact: After Lincoln’s assassination, thousands of people lined the streets to watch his funeral train travel from Washington, D.C. to Springfield, Illinois. The journey became a symbol of national mourning and unity.

Who assassinated Abraham Lincoln?

John Wilkes BoothAndrew JohnsonUlysses S. GrantFrederick Douglass

Where did Lincoln's assassination take place?

Ford's TheatreThe White HouseSpringfieldThe Capitol

Who became president after Lincoln?

Andrew JohnsonJohn Wilkes BoothUlysses S. GrantRobert E. Lee

What was Reconstruction?

Rebuilding the SouthEnding slaveryA new warA peace treaty

How did Lincoln's death affect Reconstruction?

It made it harsherIt ended quicklyIt brought peaceIt helped the South

Why did Booth assassinate Lincoln?

He supported the SouthHe wanted peaceHe was presidentHe was a soldier