This course introduces students to the history of education in the United States, exploring the ideologies and theoretical frameworks that have been paramount in different historical periods and the ways they have shaped the social, cultural, economic, and political dimensions of educational institutions in America. One key objective of the course is to provide a historical perspective on the schooling experience of diverse groups of people. This course focuses on issues of power and privilege and the ways that race, class, gender, citizenship/nationality, and sexuality intersect with school policies and practices across historical moments. By historically linking the development of educational initiatives to notions of power, nation building, and citizenship, this course also furthers an understanding about the multiple purposes of education within democratic nations and its role(s) within our current social and political climate. At course end, students will be able to demonstrate an understanding of the development of American education by explaining key historical conditions and events that have shaped present day educational realities. This course counts toward the Gender Studies minor.