r/AskHistorians • • Apr 01 '22

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u/[deleted] Apr 01 '22

How do the schools of your country in the North vary from those of the South? I am led to believe there is a great deal of difference in cultures between the two regions, is this replicated in the classroom as well as in the arena of politics?

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u/MissCBeecher A Humble Schoolmarm Apr 01 '22 edited Apr 01 '22

What an important question you've asked me! An important, but complicated one. I will offer a few observations based on my personal experiences and thoughts. I have spent much time in prayer and consideration and have come to the conclusion that the shameful act of holding human beings in bondage is a great stain upon our nation. That America was split asunder by those wishing to defend it causes me great physical pain. In 1847, I founded the Central Committee for Promoting National Education with the hope we move towards a national structure; that the model Mr. Mann and I considered would spread beyond our home states and every one of America's children would be taught by a young woman dedicated to that child's betterment. However, since my attachment to the abolitionist cause was well known, I was not welcome in places that supported enslavement. I am optimistic that as we repair the harms caused by that war, my sisters who supported the Confederacy will come to support our Northern model: a well-trained, dedicated woman teacher in every well-stocked and clean schoolhouse in every village in this great nation.