Educating the Future on the Past: Schoolhouse Rock! and Creating a New Era For Historical Education

Everyone knows the phrase “Conjunction junction, what’s your function” and “I’m just a bill on capitol hill.” These are due to the great popularity of the popular Schoolhouse Rock! shorts that have become an integral part of American childhood as they have been played in schools throughout America. Released in 1973, almost 200 years following the founding of America, the shorts have educated countless children with lessons on grammar, mathematics, and, most importantly for our episode, American history. However, as we approach the 250th year anniversary of America’s founding, Dr. Ringel argues that Schoolhouse Rock!’s discussions on American history may not be as inclusive as they could be. Today, we will be discussing the history of Schoolhouse Rock! and the possibilities of creating a more open, diverse, and civically conscious show. A link to Dr. Ringel's interview will be attached when it is released.