March 2013

BotM-Dames

Independent Dames

By: Laurie Halse Anderson

Listen up! You've all heard about the great men who led and fought during the American Revolution, but did you know that the guys only make up part of the story? What about the women? The girls? The dames? Didn't they play a part?

Of course they did! You and your family can read Laurie Halse Anderson's entertaining, informative, and long overdue homage to those independent dames to learn about women who helped make America what it is today!

Activities

  1. Discuss with your family the many ways that women influenced the American Revolutionary War behind the scene. Which was your favorite woman to learn more about and why did you like her story?

  2. There are many extraordinary women who continue to impact America. Chose an extraordinary woman-a great teacher, businesswoman, community leader, or relative-that you admire. You can think and talk to them about how they became accomplished. How do they impact their community? What challenges have they faced and what obstacles have they overcome? I would love for you to share what you learn on my facebook page.

  3. Did you know that more than 2 million U.S. women are veterans of the Armed Forces? In fact, women have served in every armed conflict involving the United States -- including the Revolutionary War! Visit this site to learn more about the special accomplishments of women who have served in the Armed Forces.

  4. Tennessee claims many famous female suffragists, civil rights activists, and movers and shakers in politics and in the music industry, as well as many other notables. You and your family can visit your local library to find books about influential Tennessee women, such as reformer Frances Wright, blueswoman Alberta Hunter, and the Grand Ole Opry's Minnie Pearl (Sarah Colley Cannon).