Age Quote by Grace Abbott
“The first and continuing argument for the curtailment of working hours and the raising of the minimum age was that education was necessary in a democracy and working children could not attend school.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Progressive Era advocacy, early 20th century United States
Advocates for reduced child labor and later school entry, arguing education is essential for democratic participation and children cannot learn while working.
In simple terms: Education needed for democracy; child labor harms schooling.
Limit child labor, raise school age.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- policy debates
- parental decisions
- school planning
- child labor legislation
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can societies balance economic needs with education?
- What policies effectively protect child schooling?
Economic pressures may resist reduced hours.