Educating the Empire: American Teachers and Contested Colonization in the Philippines

Sarah Steinbock-Pratt delves into the intricate relationship between education and imperialism in the Philippines, revealing how American educators played a pivotal role in shaping colonial ambitions. Through an exploration of the ideals and practices of these teachers, she uncovers the complexities within the educational system imposed on the archipelago.

The narrative highlights the tensions between the promotion of democratic values and the underlying motives of control and assimilation that characterized the American presence in the region. Steinbock-Pratt's analysis provides valuable insights into how education served as both a tool for empowerment and a mechanism of domination, reflecting broader themes of power and cultural exchange.

By examining personal accounts, policies, and the educational experiences of Filipino students, this work invites readers to consider the profound and lasting impacts of American colonization. It challenges prevailing narratives, offering a nuanced understanding of the intertwined histories of education, nationalism, and colonial rule.