Situation #1: Imagine that you are a free black male living in Columbus, OH in 1863. You have seen the recruiting poster and have been thinking a lot about whether or not to enlist in the Union Army.

Write a one-page letter (double spaced) to your mother telling her of the decision you have made about enlisting (or not enlisting). Be sure to explain the reasons that caused you to make the decision.

I have decided to enlist in the Union Army. After a lot of thinking and consideration I have determined to enlist. I have decided this because I want freedom for me, my family, and the people in the future. I decided that I shall enlist to stop the cruelty of the South, to unite the United States.

I want freedom for all black men in this great country. Being beaten for the smallest of infractures is unjust. It is against the Constitution. We are people of the United States too, we are people not property and it is time to fight for that. I refuse to stand by and watch as black men and woman are kidnapped from the North and into the South. I will fight so that my sons, daughter, and grandchildren don't have to live in that world. I am fighting for my right as an American citizen, which I am no matter what the people down South say.

The United States is at war, we are split in half by the great terror that is slavery. We need to be strong again and joining the army will not only help towards ending slavery but also unite our great country. We are split between humanity and inhumane acts. I'm fighting for our rights. I'm fighting for justice Ma. I love you and I sincerely hope you support my decision towards justice for all those killed and kidnapped through slavery.

Much love,

Your son