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Genocide has occurred throughout history, but the 20th century was one full of such events. Millions of people have died in the interests of the need of an extreme government to maintain or increase power. Almost without exception, governments of democratic nations have underestimated the occurrences of genocide while they happened and have missed the potential for genocide before it happens. Why is this so? What can governments look for as a warning of an impending genocide? How can they intervene and prevent a tragedy? (Note that some of the research material for this activity features graphic images.)

Students research the genocide in Rwanda as a basis for establishing the criteria for identifying a potential genocide. They will consider the list of genocidal indicators provided and examine these factors in at least three 20th century genocides. They will create a software presentation that cross-references the indicators to the genocides and uses quotations and visuals to support their results. Students will then write a 500-word essay offering recommendations to western governments about identifying and responding to potential genocide events in the future.

Students deliver their presentations to the class. As a group, prepare a comprehensive list of indicators of genocide. As a long term follow-up, assign students the task of observing news reports over the next few months to see if any of the indicators are visible in current media. Check in with students once a month on their findings. If an issue arises, students can write to their federal politicians recommending some form of action.