What is Boys State?

The name “Boys State” was selected by the first participants in Illinois in 1935. As the name implies, Boys State is organized to instruct its participants, or “citizens,” in the operation of government on the state and local levels.

The citizens of Boys State, numbering approximately 800, are divided into fourteen political subdivisions or cities. Each city selects its own governing officers as well as representatives to the Boys State Legislature.

The importance and methods of political recruitment are also highlighted by competition between two fictional political parties. These parties conduct separate conventions that nominate candidates for the state elections for Governor, Lieutenant Governor, and Attorney General. Other topics, such as the method of voter registration and supervision of elections, are covered in the instructional program. A functional court system is also established.

These exercises in the operation of government are patterned after the laws and procedures actually employed in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Within this context, however, citizens are encouraged to express their own thoughts and ideas. Legislators choose the bills they wish to consider. Candidates for office determine the best methods for conducting their campaigns and each political convention adopts its own platform. These activities enable the citizens to better identify, through their own experience, the strengths and shortcomings of government and the democratic process.

Boys State is an exercise in learning by doing.