Continuing from part 2

Franklin continues in his proposal for the education of youth;

But if HISTORY be made a constant Part of their Reading, such as the Translations of the Greek and Roman Historians, and the modern Histories of antient Greece and Rome, &c. may not almost all Kinds of useful Knowledge be that Way introduc’d to Advantage, and with Pleasure to the Student?

That old adage ‘those that do not know history are condemned to repeat it’ comes to mine.  Franklin believed that many lessons on leadership, economics, and morality, to name a few can be learned, while studying history.  Studying Greek and Roman history gives as a good understanding of how the US form of government developed.  But in this global economy we also need to add a look at other histories such as African and and Asia.

As GEOGRAPHY, by reading with Maps, and being required to point out the Places where the greatest Actions were done, to give their old and new Names, with the Bounds, Situation, Extent of the Countries concern’d, &c.

Linked to history is the study of geography.  Google Earth would have been blown Franklin away but he would have quickly realized how you can look at the interconnectedness of the the planet.  We can explore at how the natural environment effects boundaries and can impact global issues surrounding water and land use.  Knowing history and geography can assist us as we connect with others world wide in our increasing dependance on the global workforce and market place.  Before Thomas L. Friedman  wrote the World is Flat he wrote The Lexus and The Olive Tree: Understanding Globalization this the first time I read a great explanation of what I experienced and felt while living abroad.  I lived with expatriates from many counties.  My children are 3rd culture kids.  I saw these children as those that will lead the way and find success in the world.  They are not held to any one country but see them selves as world citizens.  They have a very unique view point that I have rarely encountered since my return to the US.

CHRONOLOGY, by the Help of Helvicus or some other Writer of the Kind, who will enable them to tell when those Events happened; what Princes were Cotemporaries, what States or famous Men ?ourish’d about that Time, &c. The several principal Epochas to be ?rst well ?x’d in their Memories.

ANTIENT CUSTOMS, religious and civil, being frequently mentioned in History, will give Occasion for explaining them; in which the Prints of Medals, Basso Relievo’s, and antient Monuments will greatly assist.

Franklin finds the study a of history so important he emphasizes that students should also focus on the principal players in history, as well as, the ancient customs. Again this will help us develop a deeper understanding of the world and those we work with.  It is in understanding the simple of customs of day to day life that we are more comfortable in interacting with each other, feel accepted and valued.

MORALITY, by descanting and making continual Observations on the Causes of the Rise or Fall of any Man’s Character, Fortune, Power, &c . mention’d in History; the Advantages of Temperance, Order, Frugality, Industry, Perseverance, &c. &c. Indeed the general natural Tendency of Reading good History, must be, to ?x in the Minds of Youth deep Impressions of the Beauty and Usefulness of Virtue of all Kinds, Publick Spirit, Fortitude, &c.

In light of recent news and the economic situation I must say that a refocus on ethics and morality is needed.  Students should discuss the ethical and moral implication of both historical and current events.  I do not mean that schools should determine what is right and wrong.  The pro and cons, cause and effects, of political and economic decisions should be considered.  We have the advantage of the internet to help facilitate this.  We can easily access many different points of view on current events.  We need to make sure our students see the many sides of an issue not just one or two.

The study of history and current events are critical.  We must get past the fact based approach of our test based curriculum and use history to develop a richer understanding of ancient and modern societies, as well as, a global understanding of moral and ethics as they relate to each society.

To be continued.