BSED Major in Social Studies 2

American Revolution

This passage highlights the role of education in shaping American citizens following the Revolution in 1783. At that time, while formal schooling was less prominent, other institutions like the home, workplace, and church played vital roles in educating people. However, as the United States transitioned into a unified nation, there was a recognized need for citizens to be educated in values, responsibilities, and national unity for the country's survival.

According to Cremin (1980), the goal of education became focused on cultivating a new kind of citizen: one with virtuous character, strong patriotism, and wisdom. This education would ensure that citizens were both independent and loyal, crucial for completing the Revolution and establishing a solid foundation for the Republic. Thus, education was seen as essential in maintaining the ideals of the new nation.

The context of this passage lies in the period following the American Revolution (1775–1783), when the newly formed United States was transitioning from colonies under British rule to an independent republic. During this time, American leaders recognized that for the country to survive and thrive, citizens needed to be educated in republican ideals, such as virtue, patriotism, and civic responsibility.

Formal education systems were not yet well established, so education was largely informal, taking place at home, in churches, and in the workplace. Despite this, there was a growing belief that education should play a central role in fostering the qualities needed for the new democratic society. The passage reflects a vision of education as a means to shape "republican individuals" who would help sustain the nation's values and institutions.

This view was part of the larger effort to ensure the success of the American experiment in self-governance. Thinkers like Cremin emphasized that the Revolution would only be complete if citizens were educated to support and protect the Republic. Thus, the "task of American education" became a crucial part of the nation's development in its early years.

Lawrence A. Cremin was an influential American historian and scholar of education, particularly noted for his work on the history of American education. Born in 1918 and passing away in 1990, Cremin served as a professor at Teachers College, Columbia University, and was known for his research that explored the evolution and significance of education in the United States.

Cremin's work often focused on the relationship between education and American democracy, emphasizing the role of education in fostering civic virtues and responsible citizenship. He argued that education was essential for maintaining the values and principles of the Republic, particularly in the context of the American Revolution and its aftermath. One of his notable contributions is the book "American Education: The Colonial Experience, 1607-1783," where he examined the early foundations of American education and its impact on society.

His insights into the importance of education in shaping character and citizenship have influenced educational philosophy and policy in the United States.

Yes, England (or Britain) attempted to invade America during the American Revolutionary War (1775–1783) as part of its efforts to suppress the rebellion of the American colonies seeking independence. Here are some key events related to British attempts to invade and control American territories:

1. Initial Conflict: The conflict began with tensions between the colonies and Britain over taxation and representation, leading to events like the Boston Tea Party in 1773 and skirmishes at Lexington and Concord in 1775.

2. Major Battles:

Battle of Bunker Hill (1775): This was one of the early and significant battles where British forces aimed to seize control of strategic positions in Boston.

Invasion of New York (1776): British General William Howe led a major military campaign against New York City, resulting in a significant British victory and the capture of the city.

3. Saratoga (1777): The American victory at the Battles of Saratoga marked a turning point in the war, convincing France to ally with the American colonies against Britain, further complicating British military efforts.

4. Southern Campaign (1778-1781): After early losses in the North, the British shifted their focus to the Southern colonies, aiming to exploit loyalist support. This included battles such as the Siege of Savannah and the Battle of Camden.

5. Yorktown (1781): The decisive defeat of British General Cornwallis at the Siege of Yorktown, where American and French forces surrounded the British, ultimately led to the surrender of British forces and a turning point in the war.

These invasions and military campaigns were driven by Britain’s desire to maintain control over the colonies, but ultimately they failed to suppress the revolutionary movement, leading to American independence with the Treaty of Paris in 1783.