The 1983 invasion of Grenada was one of the first major military actions after the Vietnam War. The invasion took place during the tensions of the Cold War, making the stakes higher than what might be expected. Using President Ronald Reagan's address and press conference following the action, learners evaluate the decision. Additional clips offer historical perspective from players, as well as a Congressional speech that connects Grenada to presidential military powers.

Concepts

the presidency of ronald reagan, ronald reagan, the military, cuba, the cold war, the caribbean islands, american history

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Additional Tags

social studies

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Instructional Ideas

• Use clips to demonstrate the use of the War Powers Act
• Offer the resource to stimulate debate on the effects of the Cold War on American military engagements around the globe

Classroom Considerations

• To view the resource, create a free C-SPAN Classroom account or the use of the following login credentials: Username: students, Password: C-SPANCLASSROOM
  

Pros

• Videos help individuals explore the significance of Grenada in the context of larger issues
• Contemporary videos allow class members to view history as it was happening

Cons

• Not all clips are related to the topic, and perhaps are the incorrect links

Common Core

RH.6-8.1 RH.6-8.4 RH.6-8.6 RH.6-8.10 RH.9-10.1 RH.9-10.4 RH.9-10.6 RH.9-10.10 RH.11-12.1 RH.11-12.4 RH.11-12.6 RH.11-12.10