In November of 2001, less than two months after the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center, Nebraska's state board of education approved a patriotism bill specifying content for the high school social studies curriculum in accordance with the state's 1949 statute--the Nebraska Americanism law. Nebraska was not alone. Within a few months, more…

Traces the legal history of the school flag movement and efforts of religious groups to have the mandatory salute abolished. Suggests that schools must educate students for true citizenship and what it means to live in a democracy. Argues that the flag should be a symbol of freedom rather than the object of empty pledges. (DK)

A national citizenship survey, in which over 600,000 students in grades two through junior high school participated, showed that students have a positive but realistic view of their government, take their responsibility as citizens--and their right of free speech--seriously, and love their country because it is a free country. (RM)

Examines the life of James Madison, Founding Father and "theoretic statesman." Focuses specifically on Madison's education and character, his friendship with Thomas Jefferson, and his civic legacy: a selfless devotion to republican government and union. (JDH)

Reports results of a 1991 survey of high school students to determine whether student opinions about good citizenship had changed since a 1987 study. Reports that students perceived good citizenship as the ability to make wise decisions and be concerned for others. Concludes that students consider responsibility, ability to question, and moral…

Traces the late-nineteenth-century movement to raise the U.S. flag at public schools, Americanize immigrant students, and inspire patriotism through flag exercises and recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance. Identifies political opposition. Relates this history to the June 1989, Supreme Court decision, stating flag burning was protected under the…