A Brief History of Schooling in the United States

This book presents a sweeping overview of the historical and philosophical foundations of schooling in the United States. Beginning with education among the indigenous peoples of the Americas and going on to explore European models of schooling brought into the United States by European colonists, the author carefully traces the arc of educational reform through major episodes of the nation’s history. In doing so, Janak establishes links between schools, politics, and society to help readers understand the forces impacting educational policy from its earliest conception to the modern day. Chapters focus on the philosophical, political, and social concepts that shaped schooling of dominant and subcultures in the United States in each period. Far from being merely concerned with theoretical foundations, each chapter also presents a snapshot of the “nuts and bolts” of schooling during each period, examining issues such as pedagogical devices, physical plants, curricular decisions, andfunding patterns.

“The text is punchy, engaging and manages to cover events and issues concisely, providing clarity through minimalism, making it perfect for undergraduate students and scholars focusing on American schooling for the first time.” (Jack Hodgson, History of Education, January 24, 2020)

“With spirited prose and admirable clarity, Janak reduces the history of education to its minimalist essence. This succinct primer is a great first text for any beginner looking to enrich her understanding of education in the United States. I know of no other work that covers so much ground so economically, with resources for further study provided for those who want to learn more.” (Milton Gaither, Professor of Education, Messiah College, USA)

“Edward Janak's A Brief History of Schooling in the United States offers a pithy, fast-paced, and often humorous introduction to the history of education. In this one-of-a-kind account, he invitingly guides readers through some of the field's challenging terrain while piquing interest in learning more.” (Jackie M. Blount, Professor of Educational Studies, Ohio State University, USA)

“This is an animated and accessible primer on the history and philosophy of American education. Succinct and thoughtful, the book offers readers both an introduction to main figures, events, and ideas in the American educational tradition and it provides references to further reading and thinking.” (Kate Rousmaniere, Professor of Educational Foundations, Miami University, USA)

“In this remarkably concise and sweeping account, Janak traces prominent civic and moral justifications for education in American history. The book’s regular consideration of philosophical roots highlights the power of ideas in informing educational practice and reform in a given era. Its attention to legacies from the various historical episodes discussed encourages readers to view these developments as relevant antecedents to enduring educational problems. The result is a multidimensional and accessible narrative that establishes the immediacy of historical and philosophical perspectives on American education.” (Sevan G. Terzian, Professor, University of Florida, USA)

“Brimming with deep questions and engaging narrative, this short history on schooling and education in the American context will surely stimulate dialogue among students and educators. Janak skillfully weaves together cultural context and theoretical foundations, accompanied by thought-provoking arguments. This meaningful and concise work acknowledges distinctions within Eurocentric frameworks, while recognizing the valuable and diverse educational structures of indigenous peoples. Altogether a memorable introduction to education in the United States.” (Benjamin A. Johnson, Associate Professor, Utah Valley University, USA)

Edward Janak is Associate Professor in the Department of Educational Foundations and Leadership at the University of Toledo, USA. He is also the author of Politics, Disability, and Education Reform in the South: The Work of John Eldred Swearingen (2014).