Illiteracy Quote by Amity Shlaes
““Black illiteracy decreased to 16.4 percent in 1930, from 45 percent in 1900. Fewer black babies died at birth—by half. Black life expectancy was rising. Most important, blacks were able to find work at about the same rates whites did. Data from the 1930 census would show black unemployment nationally standing slightly below white unemployment.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Forgotten Man, Amity Shlaes, 2005
The data shows significant improvements in African‑American health, education, and employment between 1900 and 1930, narrowing gaps with whites.
In simple terms: Black Americans made progress in health, education, and jobs.
Key Takeaway
Recognize historical progress while addressing remaining inequities.
Themes
history
race
economics
public health
education
Mood
reflective
analytical
hopeful
Type
historical
statistical
educational
When to use this quote
- civil rights activism
- public health planning
- educational reform
- labor market analysis
Key Concepts
demographic trends
social mobility
policy impact
Questions to Reflect On
- What policies contributed to these gains?
- How do these trends compare to later decades?
A Different Perspective
Data may mask regional disparities and systemic barriers that persisted.
