Recent findings from a new report by the American Council of Trustees and Alumni (ACTA) shed light on a concerning trend in American education. According to the report titled “Losing America’s Memory 2.0,” over 3,000 undergraduate students lack fundamental knowledge about the nation’s history and government, highlighting a significant civic literacy gap.
Shocking statistics reveal that only 31% of students could recognize James Madison as the “Father of the Constitution,” and a staggering 60% were unaware of the term lengths for members of Congress. These essential facts about American governance are crucial for a well-informed citizenry, raising serious concerns about the future of our democracy.
Moreover, a minimal fraction of students correctly identified key government figures like Kamala Harris, John Roberts, and Mike Johnson in their roles. Historical knowledge is also lacking, with less than a quarter recognizing the Gettysburg Address as the source of the famous phrase “Government of the people, by the people, for the people.”
These findings are particularly troubling in light of recent presidential impeachment trials, as only 32% of students were aware of these proceedings occurring in the Senate. This historical amnesia leaves a generation ill-equipped to comprehend the intricacies of our political system and engage actively in its processes.
ACTA Vice President Bradley Jackson expressed disappointment in the lack of preparation among students for participation in the democratic republic. He stressed the importance of informed citizens in the maintenance of a healthy democracy.
ACTA President Michael Poliakoff highlighted the consequences of this knowledge gap, warning that graduates with limited understanding of American history and values struggle to navigate modern society’s complexities. They lack the ability to defend democratic institutions or engage in meaningful discussions on critical issues.
ACTA advocates for mandatory U.S. history and government courses for all college students. Their resources, including previous surveys and the “What Will They Learn?” college ratings tool, provide valuable insights and practical steps towards a more civically literate future.