For our elections unit study we watched a wonderful old black & white film staring Jimmy Stuart…a classic…..Mr. Smith goes to Washington.  This is an excellent choice for homeschool families because it lends to good family discussions and offers a civics lesson as well. It exposes the corruption within our government, how the media plays a part in this corruption, and how the people can easily be fooled if the media is also corrupt and biased.   It reveals the heart of a young senator who is idealistic and patriotic….one who stands up to the crooked politicians.  If you watch this film you will learn how a bill is introduced, what it means to filibuster,  and about  the influence of lobbyists.  My favorite quote from this film is, “Liberty is too precious a thing to be buried in books.  Men should hold it up in front of them every single day of their lives and say, I’m free to think and to speak.  My ancestors couldn’t and I can, and my children will.”  I hope you will take the time to watch this very important movie….especially now during our election season.

Check out the filibuster scene: