Why are primary sources important? How can they help us uncover missing pieces of history? Why is it important to understand multiple perspectives from our past? Objective 1. Analyze what the words of the Declaration of Independence say about what its writers believed. 2. Explain that full citizenship rights were restricted to white male property owners over the age of 21 in the new Republic. Background These lessons took place over several 45-minute blocks. Some lessons took longer, as students had questions, and thoughtful discussions ensued. As this is a lengthy lesson, each teacher can det Duration: 60 Minutes.