The Pig War
Book Summary:
The Pig War tells the true story of the 1859 border dispute between the United States and Great Britain over the San Juan Islands, which started when an American farmer shot a British-owned pig. Despite tensions that could have led to war, the conflict was resolved peacefully through negotiation and military restraint. The book highlights diplomacy, geography, and the importance of communication in resolving international disputes.
Recommended Questions:
How did the geography of the San Juan Islands influence the conflict and the strategies used by both the United States and Great Britain?
How might American settlers, British authorities, and Indigenous peoples have viewed the conflict differently? Why is it important to consider the perspectives of all groups involved when studying historical events?
What lessons about negotiation and diplomacy can we learn from the way the Pig War was resolved peacefully?
Do you think it was fair for Charles to ask for $100 for his pig? Why or why not?
How might the outcomes of previous wars between the British and Americans (the American Revolution and the War of 1812) have influenced decisions about the Pig War?
Why is this incident called the “Pig War” even though no actual war broke out?
Research the English and American camps on the San Juan Islands and the information they share with visitors today. Be sure to look up the pig statue and describe what is unique about the object in the pig’s mouth.
Standards:
NCSS Theme 9: Global Connections
The Pig War highlights how local events can have international implications, showing the connections between the United States and Great Britain. The dispute over the San Juan Islands demonstrates how geography, politics, and communication link communities across national borders. Students learn that even a small incident, like the shooting of a pig, can influence global relations, illustrating how events and decisions in one place can resonate internationally.
Social Justice Anchor Standard 10: Respectful Dialogue
The Pig War illustrates how diplomacy, negotiation, and adherence to laws can prevent conflict and promote peaceful solutions. By studying how the United States and Great Britain resolved the San Juan Islands dispute without violence, students learn the importance of civic engagement and responsible decision-making in both local and international contexts. The book encourages learners to consider how individuals and governments can use dialogue and civic processes to resolve disputes constructively.
WA History 2: Understands and analyzes causal factors that have shaped major events in history
The Pig War demonstrates how a seemingly small incident—a farmer shooting a pig—was influenced by larger political tensions, unclear treaties, and geographical misunderstandings. Students can trace the causes of the dispute and examine the consequences, seeing how local actions intersect with global politics. This promotes historical thinking about cause, effect, and the factors that shape events.
