What Happened at the First Thanksgiving?

What Happened at the First Thanksgiving?

Grade 5th Grade · Social Studies · 45 min

What's Included

Learning Objective

I can describe the events that led to the first Thanksgiving.

Warm-Up Video

Uncivil History · 6:10

The First Thanksgiving: What Really Happened

Guided Notes

3 key concepts

  • 1

    At the start of the 17th century, southern New England was home to a variety of busy communities within several confederations known as the People of the First Light, who called their home the Dawn Land.

  • 2

    The Separatists, later known as Pilgrims, sought a patent from King James to build a colony in America, planning to profit from catching fish to repay their investors.

  • 3

    During New Plymouth's first year, Squanto plotted to overthrow Massasoit, but his plan was discovered, leading to further tensions between the settlers and the Wampanoag.

Practice Questions

9 questions · Multiple choice & Short answer

Exit Ticket

Quick comprehension check

Describe three events that led to the first Thanksgiving.

Complete Lesson Package

Get all 3 ready-to-use resources:

Teacher GuideComplete lesson plan
Student DocPrintable student handouts
SlidesReady-to-use presentation