INTRODUCTION

Art education in America, more accurately described as “drawing,” is in its infancy during the early to mid-nineteenth century. Growth is slow. Organized teaching of drawing does not occur until the 1870's (Wygant, 1983). What we do have during this time is the development of the common school movement led by dedicated individuals who introduce art into the public education system. However, a common education is not met with wide spread acceptance. Wygant (1993) observes, "...it is noteworthy that art instruction of any kind enters American public schools while the idea of a common free education is still debated” (p.1).

 

Timeline of Important Events:

1820 - Missouri Compromise

1825 - Erie Canal Completed

1830 - Second Grand Awakening

1830 - Indian Removal Act

1832 - Seminole War begins

1835 - Texas War for Independence begins

1836 - Battle of the Alamo

1837 - Panic of 1837

1838 - 1839 - Trial of Tears

1839 - Slaves revolt on the Amistad

1846 - Mexican-American War begins

1848 - Seneca Falls convention