About This Lesson
Ben Shahn’s Allegory sets the stage for an inquiry study that explores the far-reaching consequences of Jim Crow laws and housing segregation in the mid 1900s.
Ben Shahn’s Allegory is a compelling starting point for an inquiry study, immersing students in the human drama faced by the Hickman family. For history and social studies teachers covering Jim Crow laws, institutional racism, and the rise of urban ghettos in post–World War II America, this painting provides a unique gateway to explore larger social issues. The Hickman family tragedy, as documented in the socialist newspaper The Militant, brings historical artifacts to life and personalizes the struggles endured by many African American families across the United States. Examining these news accounts transforms abstract oppression into relatable stories, fostering deeper understanding and empathy.
