The Rendell Center

Every trial starts with an exhibit. This one has a spine. The American Revolution. Discover "Be the Jury," where history gets cross-examined, NOT just memorized. The case file opens in two weeks.

250 years ago today, 56 delegates picked up a pen and signed the most revolutionary document in American history: The Declaration of Independence.

This fall, we’re asking a new generation to pick up the gavel instead.

What if students didn’t just read about the Revolution, but argued it? Cross-examined Betsy Ross. Put King George III on trial. Decided, for themselves, what justice looked like in 1776?

Something is coming to grades 4–8 classrooms this fall. Consider this Exhibit A.

We are proud to share the story about our new Book - Be The Jury done by Pat Loeb of KYW

The Rendell Center for Civics and Civic Engagement has released a semiquincentennial-themed book for tweens and teens to learn about the justice system.

In the book “Be the Jury,” the charges against King George III come right out of the Declaration of Independence.

“Quartering troops in homes and all these bad things that he did,” said Judge Midge Rendell, president and co-founder of the Rendell Center, whose mission is to promote civic education so the next generation is prepared to be effective citizens.

They provide teaching tools and hold events like mock trials, and the new book combines the two: blueprints for three mock trials — two with King George as the defendant and one case against Betsy Ross.

Today we celebrate 250 years since the adoption of the Declaration of Independence, a milestone that invites us to reflect on our nation's history, the ideals that shaped it, and the people who continue to write its story.

As we honor this historic anniversary, we also celebrate the importance of civic education. By encouraging students to ask questions, examine evidence, and understand multiple perspectives, we help prepare the next generation to participate thoughtfully in our democracy.

Happy 250th Birthday, America!