What was one of the main educational focuses of the Common School Movement?

The Common School Movement, which gained momentum in the early to mid-19th century in the United States, primarily aimed to establish a system of public education that served all children, regardless of their socio-economic status. This movement emphasized the belief that a democratic society depended on educated citizens who could participate fully in civic life. As a result, it advocated for universal access to basic education, which was seen as a means to promote equality and social cohesion.

By focusing on education for all children, the Common School Movement addressed the need to provide basic literacy and civic education to poor and working-class children who would otherwise be excluded from educational opportunities. This was a radical shift from prior educational practices, which often prioritized education for affluent families and were typically reserved for a select few. The movement set the groundwork for the modern public school system, emphasizing the importance of inclusive education as a cornerstone of democracy.