Pre-writing guide for Thoreau’s Civil Disobedience
  American Renaissance

1. What was Thoreau’s position on the Mexican War?
2. Why did he feel this way?
3. Who does Thoreau hold responsible for the accomplishments of America?
4. List examples.
5. Thoreau states that “no government would be best.” However, as a citizen what does he call for at once? Why?
6. Why does Thoreau distrust “majority rule”?
7. If the law requires you to support an injustice toward another, then what should you do?
8. Why was Thoreau jailed?
9. How did Thoreau view his punishment?
10. When does he believe that a free and enlightened state will exist?