The Shot Heard Round the World: Lexington and Concord

US History The Revolutionary Era The Shot Heard Round the World
Students learn about the importance of the battles of Lexington and Concord in April 1775 and discuss why the first volley is called "the shot heard round the world." After listening to a dramatic reading of Longfellow's classic poem, "The Midnight Ride of Paul Revere," they watch a video examining the historical facts about the ride and compare facts and folklore. Finally, they consider whether (and when) it's important to be accurate when describing historical events.

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Here are the teacher pack items for The Shot Heard Round the World: Lexington and Concord:

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Overview

In this experience, students learn about the importance of the battles of Lexington and Concord in April 1775 and discuss why the first volley is called “the shot heard round the world.” After listening to a dramatic reading of Longfellow’s classic poem, “The Midnight Ride of Paul Revere,” they watch a video examining the historical facts about the ride and compare facts and folklore. Finally, they consider whether (and when) it’s important to be accurate when describing historical events.

Objectives:

  • Explain how fighting broke out in Massachusetts, including battles in Lexington and Concord.
  • Describe important details and the significance of these battles.


Did you know that the first shot fired in the Revolutionary War is called “the shot heard round the world”? The first battles took place in Lexington and Concord. In this lesson, you’ll learn why these battles were so important and discover what really happened during Paul Revere’s famous midnight ride. Finally, you’ll consider whether (and when) it’s important to be accurate when describing historical events.

Objectives:

  • Explain how fighting broke out in Massachusetts, including battles in Lexington and Concord.
  • Describe important details and the significance of these battles.


soldiers and wounded men on the battlefield

19th century depiction of the Battle of Lexington


The phrase, “the shot heard round the world” is often used to describe the first shots fired at the battles of Lexington and Concord in 1775. This phrase didn’t appear until 1837, however, when it was used in a poem called “Concord Hymn” by the American writer and philosopher Ralph Waldo Emerson.


What do you think is meant by the phrase, “the shot heard round the world”?

Post your answer

Student answers will vary, but students will likely say that the phrase means that news and surprise about the start of the war spread quickly around the world.


When everyone is ready to continue, unlock the next scene.

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