The American Heritage Series Season 1 Episode 21 Four Centuries of American Education Part II
- June 15, 2009
- 28 min
The American Heritage Series season 1 episode 21 is titled "Four Centuries of American Education Part II". In this episode, viewers will continue to explore the history of education in the United States, spanning from the 18th century to the modern day.
The episode begins by examining the growth of the public school system in the early 19th century, including the work of education reformers like Horace Mann. Viewers will learn about the rise of teacher training programs, the introduction of standardized testing, and the increasing importance of a high school diploma in the job market.
Next, the episode delves into the impact of the Civil War on American education. Viewers will learn about the challenges faced by both Northern and Southern schools during the conflict, and the efforts made to establish schools for freed slaves after the war was over.
Moving into the 20th century, viewers will see how education continued to evolve in response to societal changes. The episode explores the impact of World War I on American schools, including the introduction of vocational education programs and the growth of the university system.
Later in the episode, viewers will learn about the Civil Rights Movement and its impact on American education. The episode examines the landmark Brown v. Board of Education decision, which ended segregation in public schools, as well as the efforts made to promote diversity and inclusion in the years that followed.
Finally, the episode concludes by looking at the state of education in modern America. Viewers will see how the rise of new technologies and changing economic conditions are impacting schools across the country. The episode also examines efforts to provide new educational opportunities for underserved populations, including low-income families and students in rural areas.
Overall, "Four Centuries of American Education Part II" is a comprehensive look at the history of education in the United States. By examining the ways in which education has evolved over time, viewers will gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing American schools today.