John D. Rockefeller, Sr.
To continue the study of philanthropist John D. Rockefeller’s influence on American culture.
Students will:
- Learn about the life story of John D. Rockefeller, Sr. and his family
- Learn about the impact of his philanthropic giving for the 19th and 20th centuries
- Understand the economic impact of monopolies
- Understand the workings of The Rockefeller Foundation today and develop an appreciation for its contributions
Deane, Elizabeth (Writer, Director). (2000). The Rockefellers, part 1. [Television series episode]. In Samels, Mark (Executive Producer), American Experience. Corporation for Public Broadcasting. [https://www.pbs.org/wgbh/americanexperience/films/rockefellers/player]
The Rockefeller Foundation website [https://www.rockefellerfoundation.org/]
Photo credit: "John D. Rockefeller, full-length portrait, standing with a bicycle" is licensed under LC-USZ62-137042 (Library of Congress).
Instructions
Watch American Experience "The Rockefellers, part 1" video.
Group discussion: Divide class into two groups and assign each group a different point of view to present regarding Rockefeller’s philanthropy. Students discuss and debate whether they think Rockefeller was an effective philanthropist for his time.
Participation in the group discussion / debate.