The Dark Side of Politics: Assassinations

Home · For Teachers · The Dark Side of Politics: Assassinations

9-10

The Dark Side of Politics: Assassinations

Project type: Web Quest

Related topic:
Dr. Gerald Bull: Scientist, Weapons Maker, Dreamer

Subjects

History
Social Studies

Summary

Using a variety of Web-based resources, students prepare a display or a Web page, including a written essay, comparing and contrasting the assassination of Dr. Gerald Bull to the assassination of another historical figure.

Duration

1 to 2 lessons

Purpose

To explore the darker side of politics when dealing with perceived “troublesome” individuals

Before Exploring

Dr. Gerald Bull proposed a system whereby a supergun is used as an alternative method of launching satellites into lower space trajectories. Instead of using a multi-stage rocket to put payloads into space, he proposed a simpler and more direct method to do so. A large-barrelled gun would be used to generate the necessary initial speed to put the payload into space. However, a lack of interest from western nations forced him to redefine the project and redirect his energies into the arena of weapons. The nations that became interested in the project were enemies of the West and its allies. This conflict of interest led inevitably to the assassination of Bull.

Outline the Opportunity

Students will work alone or in pairs to research other political assassinations in order to compare and contrast them to the assassination of Bull. They will write a synopsis of both assassinations, and then display their work on bristol board or by creating a Web page. Their final product should include an essay summarizing the similarities and differences between the two assassinations.

Revisit and Reflect

Students present their comparisons to the class. As a class, carefully discuss each set of events, asking students to think critically about the series of events in each case.