8th Grade: CIVIL DISOBEDIENCE: WHAT IS IT?

"First they came for the Socialists, and I did not speak out - because I was not a Socialist.  Then they came for the Trade Unionists, and I did not speak out - because I was not a Trade Unionist.  Then they came for the Jews, and I did not speak out - because I was not a Jew.  Then they came for me - and there was no one left to speak for me."
 ---Martin Niemoller, Christian Pastor and Theologian in Nazi Germany


In the news today we see instances of protest against unjust laws.  Whether we agree with the forms the protests take, these are examples of "civil disobedience".  Take into consideration what you have been learning in Ms. Hall's class, ask yourself the question:  would civil disobedience have made a difference in Nazi Germany?  Using the quote above, address the following questions in a two well-written paragraphs (8-10 compound, complex sentences!):

• What do you think Martin Niemoller meant by this quote?
• Do you think that he regrets that he did not commit "civil disobedience"?  Why or why not?
• Do you believe civil disobedience have changed the outcome of what happened to the Jews in Nazi Germany?  Give two reasons to support your answer.
• Does civil disobedience have a place in society?  Support your answer with two details.

Post your answer to this blog in the "Comments" section.  Make sure to sign in first, or to be on the safe side, "copy" your response first before posting it in case it does not post the first time.

Make sure to support your answers, explain your points, and check for grammar.  This will count as a grade for Mrs. Yancie's and Ms. Hall's class.

Martin Niemoller