What was it? A popular and educationl movement created in the 1830's combining two passions: education and oratory This wsn't an actual location, although some places were named after this, it was an idea of spreading knowledge to the adults. This was introduced by Josiah Holbrook who was a Yale graduate and schoolteacher who frequently gave lectures to audiences consisting of farmers and mechanics who wished to further their education.

What is its significance? The purpose of the lyceums was not so much as to enteratin but to educate. Depending on the location where the lectures were to be given determined the topic. Leading scholars, politcians, and orators went to give these lectures to further the people's knowledge on what they already new in order for them to progress and improve on what they do or believe. And eventually as sectional divisions began to rise along with battles over slavery the lyceums turned into forums of discussion where people could discuss and give their own opinion. They touched upon subjects such as slavery, women's rights, and war. But all in all the results of these lyceums were to strengthen the growth of interest in education, to improve public school systems, and spread ideas of many controversial topics.

Looking Westward| Expansion and War| The Sectional Debate| The Crisis of the 1850's| Lyceum

 

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