Begin this activity by introducing students to Carl Schurz.

Carl Schurz was a prominent politician during the 19th century. Schurz became active in politics and the abolitionist movement when he joined the newly formed Republican Party and campaigned for Abraham Lincoln in the 1860 presidential election. Schurz was also a well known military figure. During the Civil War, he served as a Union Army general and played a key role in several battles. Following the war, Schurz became a Senator for Missouri from 1869-1875.

Then have students read Carl Schurz’s letter to President Andrew Johnson. 

As time allows, have students complete the Compare and Contrast Chart to record similarities and differences between the excerpt from Activity 1 from Frederick Douglass and this expert from Schurz. 

Ask students the following questions:

• Where does Schurz stand in relation to voting rights for African Americans?
• On what points do Schurz and Douglass agree? 
• Where do they differ?