1800s: The Tiers of Education

   I had very mixed feelings about this article. On one hand, my national pride was sparked by the laws mandating public education. Largely because of the Puritans, America had one of the highest literacy rates in the 1800's. Unfortunately, my attention was soon drawn to the sections involving women in aforementioned public institutions. Female teachers were paid less than their male counterparts, however, the article reassures the reader that these teachers were "valued" for the womanly touch that they brought to their classroom. Quite demeaning, if you ask me. However, any integration of women into the work force is a step in the right direction.
   The article also references Frederick Douglas' revelation regarding the relationship of freedom and education. I find it odd that education, something that we often take for granted, was valued so highly. Today, we often mistake our rights for privileges.