Click here for .pdf to
download and print
Two 50-minute classes.
Jimmie Davis, Louisiana’s Singing Governor was elected with the
help of reform governor Sam Jones in 1944. His rise to power came on
the heels of the scandalous terms of Richard Leche and Earl K. Long.
Using his singing talents, Jimmie Davis’ celebrity status helped
elect him to our state’s highest office, not only in 1944, but
also again in 1960. Students will look at the accomplishments of this
famous Louisiana governor, as well as compare him to other celebrities
who have made their ways into politics.
Social Studies
The learner will:
• Llist current celebrities who became politicians.
• Look at past governors (Jimmie Davis and Jesse Ventura) who turned
celebrity status into success in the political success.
• Look at Ronald Reagan’s career in movies and politics and
list his accomplishments.
• Write an essay on the pros and cons of celebrities in politics.
Louisiana Social Studies Content Standards
http://www.lcet.doe.state.la.us/doe/assessment/standards/SOCIAL.pdf
H-1A-M3: Analyzing the impact that specific individuals,
ideas, events, and decisions had on the course of history; (1,
2, 3, 4)
H-1A-M4: Analyzing historical data using primary and secondary
sources; (1, 2, 3, 4)
H-1B-M18: Discussing significant developments and issues
in contemporary United States history; (1, 2, 3, 4, 5)
H-1D-M1: Describing the contributions of people, events,
movements, and ideas that have been significant in the history
of Louisiana;
H-1D-M6: Examining folklore and describing how cultural
elements have shaped our state and local heritage (1, 3, 4)
H-1A-H3: Interpreting and evaluating the historical evidence
presented in primary and secondary sources; (1, 2, 3, 4)
H-1B-H17: Analyzing developments and issues in contemporary
American society;
(1, 2, 3, 4, 5)
• Celebrities in Politics activity sheet.
• Focus for viewing Video worksheet
PDF
