Poll Finds Many Americans Need History Lesson

Readers might have trouble believing this, but a Marist Poll conducted July 1, 2011 found that only 58% of the people polled knew that America declared its independence in 1776.  Twenty-six percent were unsure and 16% chose another date.  It sounds as though the 42% who didn't have the correct response might belong to the Palin/Bachman school of history.  One of my posts a few weeks ago detailed Palin's distorted account of Paul Revere's ride and Michele Bachman recently named John Quincy Adams, John Adams' son as one of our country's founding fathers--a difficult feat for a 9-year-old.

Fortunately, respondents redeemed themselves somewhat when 76% of them correctly identifed Great Britain as the country from which the US declared its independence.  However, that still leaves 24% who didn't know the answer.  Nineteen percent chose unsure and 5% chose another country.  First graders know the answers to these questions, but, evidently, some adults must have missed the lesson on the Declaration of Independence.  The most alarming result from this poll focuses on adults between the ages of 18 and 30.  Only 31% of the age group knew that the Declaration of Independence occurred in 1776.

A fundamental core of education is sadly lacking in this country, and it affects voting results and a true understanding of the founding principles of the United States.  In my experience, some of the most vocal critics of our government know the least about the constitution and the amendments that followed.  Florida even has a governor who takes pride in the fact that he doesn't read Florida newspapers.  What a great idea!  Why would he want to know what's happening in the state he governs.  It begs the question, "What does he read?" 

Wake up citizens of the United States.  All of us have an obligation to stay informed from independent sources and read publications that offer a wide range of views.  For some, this includes reading history books that provide information about the founding of this country and people from various historical periods who played a role in the events that have shaped it.  On this day that celebrates our independence, enjoy the fireworks and picnics, and then give thanks to all those who have fought to keep us free.  Happy July 4th!