Classical Et Cetera

How the Founding Fathers' Classical Education Shaped America

Aug 27, 2025
Discover how the rigorous classical education of the Founding Fathers profoundly influenced America's inception. The discussion delves into their early colonial schooling, focusing on Latin, Greek, and essential literature. Learn about the balance between depth and breadth in their studies, and the long-term discipline fostered by classical learning. The hosts also recommend enriching literature, such as _The Hobbit_ and _The Iliad_, emphasizing how these texts shaped the minds that led the nation.
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INSIGHT

Classics Were The Core Entrance Exam

  • Colonial education focused intensely on Latin, Greek, and great authors as entrance preparation for college.
  • Students read originals early so college tested language mastery rather than taught it later.
INSIGHT

Focus Enabled Depth

  • Founders were able to focus deeply because their curriculum excluded many modern nonacademic tasks.
  • Narrowing to literature, history, and core subjects made deep study possible.
ADVICE

Prune Curriculum To Prioritize Core Study

  • Remove extraneous topics and prioritize core subjects like history, literature, math, and Latin.
  • Let disciplined core study free up time for deep engagement rather than spreading students thin.
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