Reform Movements in the United States Sought to Expand Democratic Ideals

"Reform movements in the United States sought to expand democratic ideals"

Throughout the years of 1825-1850 America had undergone a dramatic conversion. These changes led to a tense relationship between the states and the federal government. During this period in America the education system was ineffective and religion was branching out in unorthodox ways that went against the norms of society. America was also experiencing an awe-inspiring reform that proved that the pen was truly indeed mightier than the sword. Transcendentalism began to flourish and expand ideals of educating the citizens such as, opening public schools. As a result of these changes, individuals began to develop their own ideas of how government should be run and their contribution to society.

Women began to demand to have a voice on how the government treated them. They refused to conform any longer to be treated as second class citizens without a voice or right as to how the government impacts their everyday life. The need to seek life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness was not only for those with white skin. During this time slavery still was a major part of the south's economy. The North and South were being divided by identifying who is worthy of pursuing these rights. During the creation of the Declaration of Independence, women and slaves were not included as those that were worthy of these rights. This was tearing the union apart. The North believed that blacks deserved the same basic rights and liberties as those of white skin. The South, held on to the belief that whites were superior to blacks. This conflict was literally splitting America at its poorly woven seams.

Substandard education was one of America's challenges .Qualified educators were extremely difficult to find because most of the American population was un-educated. Most of who were women and freed blacks. Mary Lyon of New England believed everyone was entitled to an education. So, she established the Wheaton Female Seminary in Norton, Massachusetts in order for women to receive the education they deserved and not be discriminated for having a degree. Emma Willard also shared the same beliefs as Mary Lyon, so Willard established the Troy Female Seminary in Troy, New York. With women receiving education freed blacks also joined in as well. In the south, public education expanded tremendously and became the foundation of a true democratic order. In 1875, fifty percent of black children attended public schools. The parents encouraged their children to go to school so they could learn to read, write, and think for themselves. Women, children, and freed blacks benefited from this new and improved public education system.

Religion was not simply prayer and attending church anymore, it has sprung and formed into this cluster of rituals and fine products. An example of this is Mother Ann lee and the shakers. The Shakers believed