Hamilton meets hip-hop pedagogy

Abstract

Abstract The fact that Hamilton’s music expresses history largely through hip-hop verse only scratches the surface of its potential impact to change the lives and perspectives of today’s students. Teachers all over the country have engaged in interdisciplinary, meaningful, personal and curriculum-based work based on Hamilton. More than just a source of highly entertaining rap songs about American history, Hamilton provides powerful opportunities to apply the practices and philosophies of the flourishing field of hip-hop pedagogy. This article explores compelling possible links between Hamilton and hip-hop pedagogy. A brief overview of hip-hop culture and the development of hip-hop pedagogy, including roots, values and aims, provides background for three standards-based activities for high school students.