Why Teaching the Constitution is Important to The Education of U.S. Students

There is no doubt that the US is among the most powerful nations in the world today. Since 1787 when it was formed, its constitution has been the guide for generations who have worked tirelessly to make their country what it is today. This constitution is what lays out the law of the land, protecting its citizens from all kinds of threats and paving the way for their success.

The Founding Fathers of the country went through significant effort forging this document. That is why it is important to teach the constitution and why so many students write constitution essays as part of their studies. These essays go over various aspects of this document and analyze it from different angles.

But still, many don’t quite understand why learning about the United States Constitution is essential. There are many reasons, and here are some.

What We Have in Common as Americans

The first thing that every school should teach students while talking about this document is that it is something common to all Americans. There may be students from many different parts of the world, different religions, races, and ethnicities in a classroom but they are all bound by this one document. The Constitution of America remains a common ground between everyone and it needs to be taught in schools for that primary reason.

Agreement between the Government and the Governed

Many people in the United States still don’t understand that the Constitution is a contract between themselves and the United States government. This contract lays out not only their rights but also their responsibilities. When educational institutions teach the constitution, they help the citizens understand this point.

This is essential to avoid issues like people denying to wear masks when the government requires them to. It needs to be understood that as citizens of a country, you have to give up certain freedoms. So, the next time a state pushes for wearing masks due to rising COVID cases, it’s something you legally need to adhere to. This is part of the contract granting you your rights and freedoms.

Understanding how American Democracy Works

Looking to the past is often a great way to head to a better future. Learning the Constitution helps people realize how the democracy of their country works, and how it allowed for things like slavery and the Civil War. Moreover, it also offers a clearer view of how the country was able to come out of those times. It’s crucial to know that the democracy of the United States is fluid and has seen updates in order to perfect the nation and its systems. When a student learns about the Constitution, a sense of civic pride is instilled within them that ultimately is important to achieve a better democracy.

Among Other Things, Teaching the Constitution is a Law 

For all federally funded educational institutions, teaching the Constitution is a legal obligation. A bill stating this was signed back in 2004. By doing so, the government ensures that more people are aware of this document and what it entails. They can learn about their rights and responsibilities, as well as about all the amendments that have been made so far. An important aspect of this bill, however, is to teach it without any biased interpretations. However, many educators don’t adhere to this crucial point, hence giving students a not-so-objective look into this document.

Interesting Facts from Constitutional History that Americans Should Know 

Back in 1787, the country we call America today was in crisis. It was hit by unfair trade and tariffs from England and the nation was being broken apart by jealousy and fighting. This is when James Madison, Benjamin Franklin, and George Washington came together to craft a document that would lay out a new kind of government. This document was signed on September 17th – a day now known as Constitution Day.

As for the document itself, it contains some interesting facts that people should really know about:

• Thomas Jefferson didn’t sign the document because he was in France at the time.
• The text itself was written down by Jacob Shallus who was a clerk in the Pennsylvania General Assembly.
• The document didn’t put forth any requirements regarding the right to vote. As a result, African Americans, Native Americans, and women were not allowed to vote for a very long time.
• Benjamin Franklin required assistance signing the Constitution because of poor health.
• Benjamin Franklin (81) was the oldest person to sign the document and Jonathan Doyle (26) was the youngest.
• It was in the Declaration of Independence that the term The United States of America was formally used.
• Framing the constitution actually took 100 years.

These are just some of many interesting and fascinating facts about the US Constitution. Learning these can go a long way toward helping people understand and appreciate what this document entails.

Finale

For any history teacher, it is very important to give their students an unbiased look into the Constitution of the United States. This is a piece of text that serves as the basis for everything that happens in the nation from a legal and governance point of view. Not only does learning about it help people realize the rights and liberties afforded to them but it also teaches them about their responsibilities toward their country. Teaching the constitution, therefore, is something that every school, college, and university should take seriously so everyone can understand what it truly means to be an American.