by E. D. Hirsch, Jr.

This best-selling, ground-breaking work spells out the theory behind the Core Knowledge® movement. To be able to function and prosper in society, one must possess the background knowledge that literate writers and speakers assume their audiences already share. Those who know it are culturally literate; the opportunities of a free society are open to them. Schools that neglect to impart this core knowledge leave their students seriously deprived and our democracy weakened.

The book includes a list of about 5,000 essential names, phrases, dates, and concepts, intended to illustrate the shared knowledge of literate American culture.

ISBN: 978-0-394758-43-5