The Legend of the Mighty Hammer

Worksheet Description

This worksheet recounts the legendary tale of John Henry, known as the steel-driving man from the American South, whose strength and determination became the stuff of legends. Born into slavery, he became a formidable worker, known for his ability to drive steel spikes into rock with unmatchable precision and speed. The story highlights his most famous challenge – a race against a steam-powered drill, which he won at the cost of his own life, leaving behind a legacy of human strength overcoming machine. John Henry’s story endures as a testament to the spirit of perseverance and the power of the human spirit.

The worksheet aims to introduce students to American folklore and the themes of man versus machine, human strength, and the costs of industrial progress. It uses the story of John Henry to discuss the cultural significance of folklore in commemorating historical figures and events. Students learn about the personification of human tenacity and the impact of such figures on workers’ morale and labor movements. Furthermore, it provokes thought on the evolution of technology and the value of human labor in the face of relentless progress.