President Trump is working on an executive order to dissolve the Department of Education, reflecting a longstanding conservative Republican goal dating back to 1980. This initiative has historical roots, particularly in the Civil War era, when the first federal Department of Education was established in 1867 but was short-lived due to objections about federal control, especially from Southern states opposed to educating formerly enslaved individuals. The original department originated from abolitionist and education advocates, culminating in a historical struggle over the ethics of federal involvement in education and social equity.
America's first federal Department of Education was signed into law in 1867 by President Andrew Johnson, but was quickly demoted by Congress the next year.
The objections to the original Department of Education in 1867 echo modern Republican arguments against diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.
The push for a centralized education department dates back to the late 1830s, spurred by the Common School movement and its advocacy for universal education.
Opposition to federal involvement in education has historical roots tied to resistance against educating formerly enslaved people in the South after the Civil War.
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