Cesar Chavez - Study Guide
Chronicling the birth of a modern American movement, Cesar Chavez tells the story of the famed civil rights
leader and labor organizer torn between his duties as a husband and father, and his commitment to securing a
living wage for farm workers. Passionate but soft-spoken, Chavez embraced non-violence as he battled greed
and prejudice in his struggle to bring dignity to people. Chavez inspired millions of Americans from all walks of
life who never worked on a farm, to fight for social justice. His triumphant journey is a remarkable testament to
the power of one individual's ability to change the world.
Viewing Guide/Discussion Questions
1.
What were conditions like for the farm workers before Chavez began his movement?
2. Why did Chavez go back to work as a farm laborer again?
3.
When Chavez organized strikes where the farm laborers refused to work, what were they trying to
accomplish?
Were they successful? Explain
4.
When Chavez' movement asked buyers to boycott (refuse to buy) grapes grown in California, what
were they protesting?
Were they successful? Explain
5.
Why did Chavez organize marches? Explain
To what were they trying to draw attention? Explain
6.
Why did Chavez fast for 36 days? Explain