OUR PURPOSE

A country is defined by what and who it honors. Civics is not only or primarily learning about the institutions of government, but learning about what is honorable. It means shaping a child’s tastes and desires so far as to prefer excellence over mediocrity, to appreciate greatness, and to strive for a life well-lived in the light of what one thus knows.

James Madison once wrote that enlightened statesmen will not always be at the helm as a reminder that we cannot simply rely on superior virtue to lead. But there are times when superior virtue is called for, times that try men’s souls. And when those times come, America will thrive if children seek out that challenge and rejoice in it, like the heroes they know and love.

This American Heroes series revives for your family a short list of heroes to learn about, to be grateful for, and to emulate, so far as you are able. We hope that you have a chance to read and discuss these heroes together, and that you use the Character Questions to help your children be more thoughtful about virtue generally and their own character and purposes.