The History of Children and Childhood in America

We will examine the evolution of childhood--as both a socioculturally constructed concept and a lived experience--from the colonial period to the present. In doing so, we will explore the impact of race, gender, class, and region on those constructions and experiences and consider the interpretive possibilities and challenges offered by various types of evidence: visual and literary representations, memoirs, child rearing advice, toys and play, children’s literature, clothing, and protective and restrictive laws.