politics
Gen Z can't explain America's founding. That's our fault
In Focus delivers deeper coverage of the political, cultural, and ideological issues shaping America. Published daily by senior writers and experts, these in-depth pieces go beyond the headlines to give readers the full picture. You can find our full list of In Focus pieces here.
TL;DR
- A majority of Gen Z adults failed to answer basic civics questions, with many not knowing what America's 250th anniversary marks or why the colonies broke with Britain.
- Civic knowledge and formation are dependent on both schools and the consistent reinforcement from families and civic institutions.
- The author argues that the decline in civic understanding is due to adults failing to actively teach and make the case for America's founding principles.
- Improving civic knowledge can be achieved by families and organizations reading foundational documents, visiting historical sites, and telling the stories that explain the country's existence.