Quirky History: Inspired by The West Wing- Big Block of Cheese Day

Quirky History: Andrew Jackson & the Giant Block of CheeseInspired by The West Wing | Grades 6–10

What happens when a U.S. president has an enormous block of cheese and thousands of Americans show up at the White House to help eat it?
Students dive into one of the strangest true stories in presidential history: Andrew Jackson’s Giant Block of Cheese. They investigate the real 1837 event, explore what it reveals about Jackson and the presidency, and trace how this quirky historical moment later inspired The West Wing’s fictional “Big Block of Cheese Day.”

Designed for 1–2 class periods, this No Prep Plan combines historical research, analysis, media connections, and collaborative investigation.

What’s Included
- Teacher Directions & Historical Overview
- Mini Research Questions
- 5-Step Group Investigation
- 3 Student Research, Analysis & Planning Pages
- Color + Black & White Versions
- Online Research Resources
- Disclaimers & Credits

Why Teachers Love This
- No prep and ready to use
- Turns a bizarre historical anecdote into meaningful inquiry
- Moves students beyond fact-finding into analysis and interpretation
- Builds research, evidence, comparison, and critical-thinking skills
- Connects history and popular culture
- Flexible for individual, partner, or small-group work
- Works as a stand-alone lesson, enrichment activity, or sub plan

Perfect For
- U.S. History
- American Government
- Presidential History
- Media Literacy
- Historical Research
- Enrichment & Sub Plans
- Grades 6–10

Please Note: This is an independent educational resource inspired by historical events referenced in The West Wing. It is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to NBC, Warner Bros., or the creators, producers, or distributors of The West Wing.