The 1823 Demerara Rebellion will be under scrutiny from schoolchildren, Grades 5-12, as the University of Guyana [UG] this week launched the 1823 Revolt Bicentennial Essay Competition.
The objectives of the competition, according to a press release from UG, is to assist children to gain a deeper understanding of historical events, people, and ideas that shaped Guyana’s history; that through research and writing, students can develop critical thinking skills and learn to analyse primary and secondary sources to support their arguments. Further, the 1823 Revolt Bicentennial Essay Competition, according to the release, provides an opportunity for students to engage with history in a meaningful way beyond memorizing dates and names. By focusing on a specific topic related to the revolt, children can delve into the historical context, analyse the significance of the events, and explore the various perspectives that shaped those outcomes.