The 82-year Grudge

This writing prompt describes the “grudge” the citizens of Vicksburg, Mississippi held against the United States Government after the fall of their city in July of 1863. Independence Day was not celebrated in the Mississippi River town until after World War II. This writing prompt requires students to describe a grudge they have had, or, to describe one in literature, or sports, or if someone has had a grudge against them.

Lesson:

1. Hook / Warm-Up (10 minutes)

Write the following question on the board:

• “Have you ever held a grudge against someone? Why?”

Ask students to respond in a journal or on sticky notes (can be anonymous).

Discuss with the class:

• What does it mean to hold a grudge?
• How can grudges affect people or communities?

2. Historical Context (10–15 minutes)

Read the Vicksburg passage aloud or distribute it to students to read.

While reading, highlight key points:

• Why Vicksburg was important to both sides in the war
• The conditions for people inside the city during the siege
• The long-term reaction to the siege (no July 4th celebrations for 80+ years)

Optional: Use a map to show the location of Vicksburg and the Mississippi River (project from the above-linked page)

3. Class Discussion (10 minutes)

Guide students with the following questions:

• Why did the people of Vicksburg hold a grudge for so long?
• Was their reaction understandable or extreme?
• How do historical grudges compare to personal ones today?

4. Reflective Writing (15–20 minutes)

Prompt:

Have you ever held a grudge against someone? Why? Explain your reasoning below and whether or not the “score” was ever settled. You can also explain if someone has had a grudge against you. If you can’t think of any, write about one you have read about or know about in sports.

Encourage students to include the following in their responses:

• What caused the grudge
• How long it lasted
• What they learned from the experience
• How it relates to what the people of Vicksburg experienced