Famous Last Words from Stonewall Jackson

This activity describes Stonewall Jackson's famous last words after being shot at the Battle of Chancellorsville and challenges students to pen their own final words, or, those of a character in movies or literature.
 
Lesson:

1. Hook: What Would You Say? (5–10 minutes)

Start by sharing Stonewall Jackson’s last words: “Let us cross over the river, and rest under the shade of the trees.”
Ask:

  • What do these words tell us about Jackson’s state of mind?
  • Why do you think last words are remembered?
  • Do you know any famous last words from history, film, or books?

2. Mini-Lesson: Context of Stonewall Jackson’s Death (10–15 minutes)

Share a short background:

  • On May 2, 1863, after a bold Confederate victory at Chancellorsville, Jackson was accidentally shot by his own men.
  • His left arm was amputated, and he later died of pneumonia eight days later.
  • His last words became legendary and symbolic of peace and rest after a life of war.
Optional: Show a map or image of the battlefield and Jackson’s movement before being wounded. You could also project our Battle of Chancellorsville page, our Fredericksburg and Chancellorsville Power Point presentation, or, our Stonewall Jackson page.

3. Writing Activity: Immortal Last Words (20–25 minutes)

Present the prompt:
“It may be hard to imagine YOUR OWN last words, but put yourself in a position where your last words would be immortalized forever. In no more than two sentences, what would you say? If you're uncomfortable imagining your own, choose a character from movies or literature and write their final words.”

Guidance for students:

  • Make it meaningful, humorous, wise, or poetic—it’s your legacy in a line or two.
  • If choosing a fictional character, make sure their last words reflect their personality or story.
  • Be creative, but respectful of the seriousness of the topic.
Let students write quietly. Encourage reflection and individuality in their responses.

4. Share and Reflect (10–15 minutes)

Invite volunteers to share their chosen “last words.” Ask:

  • What do these lines reveal about the person or character?
  • Do you think last words shape how people are remembered?
  • How do last words differ depending on the person’s life or values?
Make connections between legacy, memory, and storytelling in history.

Other Uses:
Morning Work - The activity takes most students about 20 minutes to complete, making it an ideal solution for morning work.
Homework - This activity is a great way to assign homework in social studies or language arts.
Share - Allow students to read their responses to the class.