After comparing incentives offered to an 18th century blacksmith with incentives offered to modern corporations, students will understand how economic strategies are used to encourage industrial and community growth. Background The reading for Lesson Plan #1 indicates that blacksmiths were a vital part of early communities. At least one town offered property as an enticement, hoping to attract a skilled and able blacksmith. The conditions, as presented, tell us that a centrally located blacksmith shop was beneficial to the community and that community officials believed the blacksmith's servic Duration: 60 Minutes.