James Forten Comprehension Journeys

Which event in the article is described first?

• James plays marbles

• James goes to school

• Thomas frees his wife

• Thomas works making sails

Which detail supports the idea that sail making is a difficult job?

• Thomas helps install the sails

• The thread can easily cut through flesh

• Thomas is employed by Robert Bridges

• Sail makers in Philadelphia work particularly hard

What aspects of U.S. history best explains the fact that Thomas Forten has to buy his wife's freedom?

• the Civil War

• women's rights

• the practice of slavery

• the Declaration of Independence

Right after Thomas Forten dies, James...

• is born

• works on a ship

• continues to go to school

• gets permission to go to sea

What happens before James joins the crew on the Royal Louis?

• The ship sails out of Philadelphia

• James carries gunpowder to the guns

• James sees African captives on the ships

• The Active lowers its flags in surrender

Why are the owners and crew of the Royal Louis allowed to share the proceeds from the sale of the Active?

• A privateer gave them permission

• They received a note from the British king

• They received a letter of marque from the colonies

• They were told they could in a speech from the Active's captain

What happens after the crew of the Royal Louis sights three British ships?

• The Royal Louis surrenders

• The captain carefully checks the ship

• The crew carries more gunpowder on board

• The Panoma takes off for the island

What detail from the article best supports the idea that Forten felt terrified after the Royal Louis surrendered to the British?

• The crew was taken aboard the Amphyon

• Captain Beasley looked over the prisoners

• There were rumors of captured Africans being sold into slavery

• Once on board the British ship, the boys were separated from older men

What is something we learn about James Forten and the other African Americans in the story?

• They were not allowed to fight in battles

• They were Revolutionary war heroes

• They were NOT Revolutionary war heroes

• They did not want to join the war

What is the name of the first ship that surrendered to the Royal Louis?

• The Amphyon

• The Active

• The Pomona

• The Nymph