Corsicana ISD High School U.S. History students, led by teacher Briana White, recently took part in an interactive Gilded Age Farming Simulation. This hands-on experience gave Corsicana ISD students a close look at the challenges American farmers faced in the late 19th century.
During the simulation, students managed fictional family farms. They made critical decisions, such as which crops to plant and how to care for livestock, while also considering financial hardships, loans, and environmental challenges.
This activity was designed to deepen students’ understanding of the Gilded Age, which spanned from the 1870s to around 1900. This era saw rapid industrialization, economic growth, and major social and political shifts.
By participating in the simulation, students experienced historical complexities firsthand. They faced decisions similar to those made by Gilded Age farmers, allowing them to engage with the same socioeconomic and environmental forces. Through this, students explored themes like technological advancements, government policies, and industrialization’s impact on rural communities.
This interactive approach fostered critical thinking and historical empathy. Students gained insight into the real-life effects of history on people in rural areas. They not only learned about economic growth and industrial power but also connected with the personal challenges faced by farmers of the time. This vivid, hands-on learning experience brought history to life, helping students appreciate the complexities that shaped the nation’s development during this transformative period.
Source: Corsicana ISD Facebook
Blog by: Intern, Mikayla Stogner, TXST
