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Building a Self-Governing People: Civics & US History for Middle School

About the Resource

This nine-unit U.S. history and civics curriculum empowers middle school students to explore how Americans have worked to create and sustain a self-governing, free society. Through scaffolded Document-Based Question (DBQ) assessments, students analyze key events, people, and ideas while practicing historical thinking and civic reasoning.

The curriculum emphasizes the Founding Principles and civic virtues that have guided the nation across time, helping students connect the past to their present and future roles as engaged citizens.

9 Units

Unit 1: The Colonial World (1607-1763)

What were the challenges faced by early settlers, how did colonial societies develop, and what role did the growing tensions with Britain play?

Unit 2: American Revolution (1763-1783)

What were the circumstances that led to the American Revolution?

Unit 3: Constitution and Ratification 1787-1791

What problems did the new nation face under the Articles of Confederation and why was the creation of the Constitution proposed as a solution?

Unit 4: Civic and Constitutional Life

How can understanding the principles of the Constitution help citizens participate effectively in a democratic society?

Unit 5: Early Republic (1789-1815)

How did the Constitution influence decisions in the Early Republic?

Unit 6: America in Transition (1815-1860)

How did Americans and democratic institutions respond to the rapid economic changes of the early nineteenth century?

Unit 7: American Expansion (1830-1860)

How did the drive for territorial expansion shape the nation’s identity and create new challenges for the United States?

Unit 8: Civil War (1860-1865)

How did fundamental disagreements over slavery and its expansion lead to a devastating civil war that transformed the United States?

Unit 9: Reconstruction (1865-1877)

How successful was Reconstruction in addressing the challenges of rebuilding the nation and ensuring equal rights for African Americans?