Magnanimity: Terms of Surrender at Appomattox - A Primary Source Analysis

This printable activity requires students to analyze the actual conversation between Lee and Grant that led to the surrender of the Army of Northern Virginia and to describe a similar display of magnanimity and grace in their own lives, or in literature or movies.

1. Warm-Up: What Does It Mean to Show Grace? (10 minutes)

• Write the word "magnanimity" on the board.
• Ask students:
  • What does it mean to be gracious or forgiving in victory?
  • Have you ever seen someone “win” but still show kindness to the other side?
• Define magnanimity as: “Greatness in spirit, especially in showing forgiveness or kindness toward a defeated rival.”
• Discuss gratitude as its companion—being thankful even in difficult or humbling situations.

2. Read the Primary Source (10–15 minutes)

• Distribute or read aloud the letters exchanged between Grant and Lee at Appomattox.
• Ask guiding questions:
  • What did Grant allow the Confederate soldiers to keep?
  • What limits did he place?
  • How did Lee respond?
  • Was this what you expected at the end of a brutal war?

3. Group Discussion: Grace in History (10 minutes)

• Discuss the following questions as a class:
  • Why do you think Grant chose to be generous to Lee and his army?
  • How might history have changed if Grant had been harsh?
  • How did Lee’s response show dignity or gratitude?
  • Can you think of a time someone forgave instead of punished?

4. Reflective Writing (15–20 minutes)

Prompt:

General Grant chose to be generous in victory. Do you think this was the right choice? Write about what his actions teach us about leadership, forgiveness, or grace. You may also share a time in your own life (or a story you know) when someone chose to be kind instead of vengeful.

• Encourage students to:
  • State a clear opinion
  • Use details from the primary source
  • Include a personal or real-world connection