"I also learned that Compulsary Education in the US originated in the later part of the 20th century as part of the "Progessive Era" (think Gangs of New York). Primary level education was confirmed as a human right in 1948."

So glad that you decided to amend your statement of ignorance about "founding principles". With the above, i no longer find it necessary to ask you to back up your "late 1800s" statement. The clueless walk amongst us....and you are an avatar of the breed........I do think that your handle should be expanded to "cognitivedissonance"......HAND