THE CHRISTIE PITS RIOT RESOURCE PACK

Abstract

The aim of this resource pack is to have students analyze primary and secondary source evidence related to the Christie Pits riot in order to establish its historical significance. The first lesson introduces students to the events of the riot and has them speculate on why this riot is historically important. The second lesson will help students explore different types of evidence related to the riot. The third lesson has students explore connections between Hitler’s rise in Germany and attitudes in Toronto, as well as the general social climate leading up to the riot. The fourth lessons asks students to adopt the perspective of a person on both sides of the riot and explore their worldview. The fifth lesson analyses sources from after the riot, asking students to decide whether the riot resulted in continuity or change, and for who. The final lesson looks at how the event has been remembered and commemorated, and what can be learned from it.