"The equal share that every citizen has in the liberty, and the possible share he may have in the government of our country, make it necessary that our ladies should be qualified to a certain degree by a peculiar and suitable education, to be the companions, and guides of their sons; and this is the more necessary, because the principal share of the instruction of children actually devolves upon them."
— Benjamin Rush, *Thoughts upon Female Education*, 1787
Which of the following historical developments during or immediately after the American Revolution best explains the social changes advocated in the excerpt?
- The rise of the concept of 'Republican Motherhood,' which argued that women should be educated to instill democratic values and civic virtue in their children.Answer
- BThe constitutional debates over replacing the Articles of Confederation with a stronger federal system to manage national commerce.
- CThe emergence of early political parties under Alexander Hamilton and Thomas Jefferson debating the strict construction of the Constitution.
- DThe immediate response of colonial boycotts against British taxation acts, which successfully secured representation for female property owners.
Answer
The rise of the concept of 'Republican Motherhood,' which argued that women should be educated to instill democratic values and civic virtue in their children.
The correct answer is correct because Benjamin Rush's writing directly reflects the ideology of 'Republican Motherhood' that emerged after the American Revolution. This concept did not grant women direct political power, but it elevated their domestic role by assigning them the civic responsibility of educating their children—specifically their sons—to be virtuous citizens in a representative democracy. To fulfill this responsibility, women's access to education was expanded, leading to the creation of new academies.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Republican Motherhood
Estimated Time:1m 30s