James Fenimore Cooper's novel "The Last of the Mohicans" is a classic work of historic fiction. Although the main characters are fictious, the historical backdrop to which the story is set is true. The siege, and subsequent slaughter, at Fort William Henry was a significant chapter in the French and Indian War. The novel has been produced for the screen on several different occasions. Our class will be watching the most recent version over the next couple of days. Before viewing the film, we are going to familiarize ourselves with the actual historical events so that we might watch the movie in a more informed way.

Task

You are going to become a fictional character witnessing a historical event. As a member of either the French, British, or Indian forces at Fort William Henry, you will write a letter home chronicling the events you have witnessed. The letter must include enough information about your fictional character that the reader can identify which side in the conflict you represent. The body of the letter will be graded on how well the actual historical record is interwoven into your letter. Your goal is to make the reader understand what really happened at the Fort. The tone of the letter should be persuasive.

Process

Access the following web sites for accounts of the Siege at Fort William Henry. As you read each account, construct a timeline containing all pertinent facts about this event. Upon completion of the timeline, write your letter home. The letter must be a minimum of one full page in length. Your grade will be based on creativity, historical accuracy, and grammar. Your letter and timeline must be turned in together on the due date.

Fort William Henry; The Siege and Massacre...

The Fall of Fort William Henry

Conclusion

Having discovered what really happened at Fort William Henry, we can now view The Last of the Mohicans with a better eye for historical detail. As you view the film be sure to complete both the comprehension and historical content sections of the worksheet.