This document provides a historical overview of the origins and evolution of American public education from ancient classical foundations to the present day. It traces key developments including the establishment of public and free education, prohibition of religious establishment, inclusive education, public funding of schools, compulsory attendance, and the rise of public education accountability and standards-based curricula. Major figures and their influences are discussed for each time period.

1. Historical Benchmarks in the Origins and Evolution of American Public Education Thomas J. Delaney, Ed.S., M.A. School and Society University of Minnesota September 26, 2006