The Civil War through the Journalist's Lens

Create your Own Social Media Post

Civil War photographers like Mathew Brady and Alexander Gardner took thousands of images in the aftermath of battle. Technical limitations prevented them from taking photos of actual battles, and many photos were staged. However, the stillness of these subjects allowed photographers to fully capture the death and destruction of war.

The Assignment

In this scenario, you are the social media producer in your newsroom. Your editor has given you the assignment of highlighting the role photojournalism played in the Civil War. You will write the original social media post and create your own comments. Use what you have learned in the case study and conduct some additional research, if needed.

Directions

Choose an image from the carousel to accompany your post by clicking on “Select Image.” As you look at the image, reflect on the event and people involved and specific decisions made by the photographer, such as camera angle and lighting.

Write the original social media entry and “post” comments in response. Thoughtful social media posts will engage the reader. Tips: Read the captions, use what you have learned in the case study and consider conducting some outside research.

Create Post

PBS NewsHour Extra

Select Image

Now you may enter up to five comments to simulate users randomly commenting on your post.

Create Post

Please select an image and enter your social media post.