FTCE Professional Education Practice Exam

Who was responsible for establishing the first compulsory education law in the United States?

1. Middle Atlantic Colonies

2. New England

3. Massachusetts

4. Virginia

The correct answer is: Massachusetts

The first compulsory education law in the United States was established in Massachusetts. This law, enacted in 1642, marked a significant moment in the history of education in America, as it mandated that children must be educated. The law aimed to ensure that children learned to read and write, fundamentally focusing on the importance of literacy for religious and civic participation. Massachusetts was at the forefront of educational reform during this period, and the law required parents to ensure their children received an education, laying the groundwork for the public school system that would develop in the following centuries. The state’s commitment to education influenced later legislation and served as a model for other regions, reflecting the evolving understanding of education's role in society. Understanding the historical context and significance of Massachusetts in establishing this law is crucial for grasping the foundations of compulsory education in the United States and recognizing the precedents it set for further educational reforms.