Social studies as a field of study embodies the essence of humankind (where people live, how they are organized, how they change, and how they prosper). This South Carolina social studies framework is based on the statement: "An educated citizenry is the key to a successful democratic society. Therefore, it is imperative that South Carolinians acquire a comprehensive and connected understanding of the human experience." Social studies is vital in helping students to: (1) understand who they are and how they relate to their communities, the nation, and the global society; (2) understand why they participate as citizens, both individually and as groups; (3) understand how the past, present, and future are interconnected; (4) respect cultural diversity; and (5) meet the challenges of the world of work. The framework provides an in-depth treatment of four core areas: history, government/political science, geography, and economics. It organizes the subject into four strands (analogous to the academic disciplines), which form the basic themes for social studies. An extensive reference list and a glossary of terms are included. (BT)