The National Association of Scholars is pleased to see the introduction of the Saving American History Act of 2020, proposed by Senator Tom Cotton (R-AR). This bill would reduce federal funding to public schools that teach The New York Times' 1619 Project, an attempt to distort American history.
The Times' initiative rewrites the American story around slavery by changing the founding year from 1776 to 1619. The change aims to forward a historically inaccurate account of America's founding principles. School districts in Buffalo, NY; Chicago; Newark, N.J.; and Washington, D.C., have already incorporated elements of The 1619 project.
NAS launched The 1620 Project to counter The 1619 Project. Our project provides a comprehensive version of America's history by featuring the diverse voices of scholars through essays, podcasts, video interviews, and transcripts.
We are pleased that Senator Cotton proposed the Saving American History Act of 2020, which would help halt the promulgation of false, divisive information.
Image: Gage Skidmore, Public Domain