Part 1 (1/2)
The Road to Independence: Virginia 1763-1783.
by Virginia State Dept. of Education.
_Foreword_
Many of the fundamental principles of our nation's development are rooted in the Colonial Period; therefore, this era deserves careful attention in the public schools of Virginia. The spirit of freedom engendered in the early days of the nation's history has remained the hallmark of the nation. It has been maintained by commitment to democratic traditions and values.
In the public schools of Virginia, various courses deal with American history, and consideration and study is given to the Colonial Period from kindergarten through grade twelve. The publication ent.i.tled, THE ROAD TO INDEPENDENCE: VIRGINIA 1763-1783, offers teachers in the secondary schools of Virginia a special challenge to select important areas of emphasis for the period 1763-1783 that will provide an improved perspective for students to see new meaning in familiar events. The teacher should present the material in a broader context so as to enable young Americans to comprehend the ideas, events, and personalities of the period. It is hoped that this publication will help to accomplish this goal.
W. E. Campbell State Superintendent of Public Instruction
_Introduction_
Virginia, the birthplace of our nation, played an important role in the winning of American independence. Virginia, the largest and the most influential of the 13 colonies, led the struggle for American independence and has helped to formulate American ideals and to shape our country's inst.i.tutions.
This publication was prepared to a.s.sist teachers in developing topics of study relating to the American Revolution and Virginia's role in the winning of independence and to help students develop deeper appreciation for the rich heritage that is theirs as citizens of the Commonwealth. The Virginia tradition was created by responsible men and women who believed in the inherent dignity of the individual, the role of government as a servant of the people, the value of freedom, justice, equality, and the concept of ”rule of law.” These ideals and beliefs remain the hallmark of Virginia and the nation.
Important objectives of this publication are:
To emphasize the study of Virginia history during the period from 1763 to 1783 when the state exerted influential leaders.h.i.+p and wisdom in the winning of American independence;
To develop a deeper understanding of the meaning of freedom and basic principles and traditions which have nourished and sustained the American way of life;
To further the students' understanding of individual rights and responsibilities in a free society;
To further acquaint students with their heritage of freedom and the importance of perpetuating democratic traditions; and
To further students' understanding of the concept of self-government and the American way of life.
It is hoped that this publication will a.s.sist in achieving these objectives.
N. P. Bradner, Director Division of Secondary Education State Department of Education
Mrs. Jerri b.u.t.ton, Supervisor History, Government, and Geography Service State Department of Education
Thomas A. Elliott, a.s.sistant Supervisor History, Government, and Geography Service State Department of Education
Clyde J. Haddock, a.s.sistant Supervisor History, Government, and Geography Service State Department of Education
James C. Page, a.s.sistant Supervisor History, Government, and Geography Service State Department of Education
Dr. D. Alan Williams, Consultant THE ROAD TO INDEPENDENCE: VIRGINIA 1763-1783 Professor of History University of Virginia
_The Road to Independence:_
_Virginia 1763-1783_