ABSTRACT

A good point to begin thinking about changes in American education is the colonial era. Extending from the 17th century (1607) to the Revolutionary War (1776-1783), it spanned nearly two centuries. This was a beginning for much of what eventually came to be seen as American culture, distinct from other parts of the world. And it was an era of sweeping social changes, before industrialization and major urban development. Colonial society was agricultural and it was cast on a small scale. But it also was in flux, experiencing growth and other changes that eventually led to Revolution and a new age in history.