Theme 4
The Federal Government's Responsibility
This inquiry kit uses primary sources to explore how laws, policies, and practices in U.S. history created economic barriers for certain groups and contributed to economic differences over time.
Thinking Questions
1.What are some examples of how government policies can create or worsen inequality?
2. What role do you think the federal government should play in addressing historical injustices?
3. How have citizens influenced the government’s role in addressing historical injustices?

Teacher’s Guide:
Photograph Analysis Tool
Teacher’s Guide:
Historical Document Analysis Tool
Teacher’s Guide:
Historical Document Analysis Tool
Visit the Library of Congress Teaching with Primary Sources Program & Join the TPS Teachers Network to find materials and resources to effectively use sources from the Library’s digital collection.
SERCO Unearthing Primary Resources TPS Project pages are sponsored in part by the Library of Congress Teaching with Primary Sources Eastern Region Program, coordinated by Waynesburg University.