Overview

Battleship Texas led a distinguished 34-year career in the United States Navy. In that time, she fought in both World Wars, earned a number of “firsts”, and was home to tens of thousands of sailors and marines from all walks of life. Texas served with the Grand Fleet during the First World War and earned five battle stars during the Second World War. She fought in North Africa, Normandy, Southern France, Iwo Jima, and Okinawa.

Essential Questions

What historical events did Battleship Texas participate in just 34 years of service and how did the ship and crew contribute to them?

Objectives

In this virtual lesson, students will read the history of Battleship Texas, identify key events and information, examine first-hand accounts, and discuss the ship’s contributions to United States history.

1. Analysis & Knowledge
   Analyze, compare, and examine the provided history, images, and primary sources to identify key events and historical conflicts throughout the ship’s 34 years of service and United States history.
2. Knowledge
   Building on existing knowledge about United States history while learning about the perspective of those serving aboard Battleship Texas in various periods.
3. Assignment
   Using prior knowledge and the provided sources, students will be able to answer the questions included in the activity.

Worksheet

Using the history of Battleship Texas webpage (battleshiptexas.org/history) and your knowledge of 20th century history, answer the following questions.

1. What historical event strained US-Mexico relations in April 1914? How did Battleship Texas participate?

2. When did the United States officially enter World War I, and what significant event did Battleship Texas and her crew witness in November 1918?

3. How did Battleship Texas make naval aviation history in March 1919?

4. What treaty ended construction of new United States Navy battleships, and how did it affect Battleship Texas?

5. During the interwar period, what did Battleship Texas do? What were some major events that happened during this period?

6. In December of 1941, what major event would lead to the United States entering what would be known as World War II?

7. In November 1942, Battleship Texas participated in an invasion in which part of the world?

8. By 1944 the Allies were looking to open up a second front in Europe against Nazi Germany. Which invasion took place in June of 1944 that would accomplish that goal? What role did Battleship TEXAS play in the invasion’s success?

TEXAS Ties: Which Texas-born figure was in command of the 2nd Ranger Battalion during the invasion, and what lasting legacy did he leave here in Texas?

9. Which historical figure, and future president, stepped aboard Battleship Texas in May 1944 to deliver a speech to the crew?

TEXAS Ties: What state was this figure born in?

10. In August 1944 Battleship Texas would return to France to participate in a second invasion. What was the invasion’s operation name, where did it take place, and how did Texas perform?

TEXAS Ties: During Operation Dragoon, Battleship Texas fired on targets in support of the United States 3rd Infantry Division. Which Texas-born figure, and medal of honor recipient, was a part of this division during World War II?

11. With Allied forces advancing rapidly in Europe, Battleship Texas would return to the United States for upgrades and modifications. Where would the ship and her crew be sent next, and how was it different from the European Campaigns?

12. What historical flag raising would Battleship Texas and her crew witness? How did the crew feel after seeing this event?

13. Following the battle of Iwo Jima Battleship Texas would be sent to Okinawa, Japan. What made the battle for Okinawa so difficult, and what did the ship’s captain order the crew to do because of it?

14. Where was Battleship Texas when World War II ended? How did they celebrate?

15. What was Operation Magic Carpet? What was the goal of the operation, and why was it important?