The National Park Service provides an account of the 1733 Slave Insurrection, the first instance in which enslaved people took control of a colony. The insurrection served as a spark to later slave revolts that would take place. They took fate into their own hands as they rose against their oppressors. The insurrection marks a significant historical event for Virgin Islanders who continue to recognize the men and women who risked their lives for freedom.

This lesson plan was developed by English Teacher Regina Keels in collaboration with local poet, historian, and writer Richard Schrader.  In this lesson, students will learn about the 1848 Slave Rebellion that led to the emancipation of enslaved Afticans in the Danish West Indies and write and present their own expression of the events. 

Slavery in the Caribbean is a 2009 WebQuest developed by Jennifa Mohammed in fulfillment of technology course at the University of the Virgin Islands. Working in groups of three, students are required to research general information on slavery in three Caribbean islands chosen from a provided list. Each group is required to create a PowerPoint presentation to inform classmates on the group's findings. Presentation of the PowerPoint must be from the viewpoint of a slave in that particular island during slavery. Students will discuss comparisons between slavery in the various islands.

From June - July 2023, the U.S. Virgin Islands commemorated 175 Years of Emancipation. This booklet, considered an instructional tool, iconic cultural bearers Ten Sleepless Knights (TSK) reflected on how far Virgin Islanders have come as a people. In the words of TSK INC, "In 2023, we are able to look back and evaluate how our lives today have been shaped by events of July 3, 1848. "As an institution, slavery was a brutal and oppressive system that controlled the day to day existence of our ancestors. The bravery and determination of many individuals who wanted a better future for themselves and their loved ones were largely responsible for bringing an end to this evil institution." The booklet is intended to be utilized as an instructional tool for educators locally and beyond.

This 11-12th grade unit plan was designed for the 9th Annual Virgin Islands Literary Festival and Book Fair, April 2023.  English Teacher Regina Keels, a member of the festival committee, developed the unit, executed the lessons as indicated, and demonstrated the Socratic Seminar with colleague Cynthia Santos along with their students during the festival.  The unit can be be amended for other Virgin Islands political leaders and their speeches or for the speeches of political leaders globally.