Boys’ State was founded to embolden the democratic foundations of our nation and to ensure a capable and patriotic citizenry would confront the challenges faced by our nation. The we believes there is no better way to assure the survival of our republic than to train our young people in the ideals and objectives of American Government. By teaching youth to understand and appreciate the basic principles involved in the successful management of a democratic society, America can remain strong and ensure our freedom for future generations.
Boys State is a unique summertime educational program that does not emphasize classroom lecture and textbook learning. Instead, it focuses on participation and personal experience in a model state, complete with governing bodies, political parties, lobbyists, and elected public officials. It is designed to mirror the structure and operation of its representative state government.
Boys State is designed to supplement the information taught in high school civics classes. It is an activity born out of a need for youth training in practical citizenship, leadership, and the operation of state government.
The Boys State dream was formulated in the minds of Hayes Kennedy and Harold Card, both educators in Illinois. The format for Boys State was laid out by Harold Card and fashioned from a system he employed to properly organize a Boy Scout camp. Shorthanded on staff, he allowed the young men to govern themselves—hold an election, elect a mayor, and a city council. Additional appointments were made to cover positions like police, fire, health, and sanitation officials. Harold Card found the young men became so enthused in carrying out their city duties; they nearly neglected their other assignments. The young men were learning by doing.
The first Boys State was conducted at the Illinois State Fairgrounds in June of 1934. The Nevada Boys State Program began under the guidance of Doc Martie and has experienced great levels of growth and success since its inception. Now, more than sixty years later, over a million delegates have graduated from the program, which continues to provide the opportunity to learn by doing. The way of life we prize is still indirectly threatened by forms of government alien to our democratic ideals, and by the growing apathy among our own citizenry. We continue conduct Boys’ State in the belief that young citizens who are familiar with the operation of our system of government will be better prepared to uphold its ideals and maintain it for future generations.