History of American Higher Education Primer

The History of American Higher Education describes the fascinating evolution of American colleges and universities, touching on the historical events which shaped them, beginning in the colonial era and proceeding to the early 21st century. Throughout history, higher education has played an important role in the transmission of cultural identity from one generation to the next. As the colonists shifted from the English monarchy to independence, a unique American culture began to develop and institutions of higher education evolved to prepare leaders with the intellectual and practical skills necessary to build a nation. Eventually, faith in science created an expansive knowledge industry and the notion that an educated citizenry was required for an effective democracy expanded and diversified educational opportunities. Complete with a bibliography, this primer is an excellent source of information on the history and organization of higher education in the United States.