This text is an excerpt from John Taylor Gatto’s book, The Underground History of American Education. Gatto argues that the American compulsory schooling system is not about education, but rather a tool for social control and economic benefit, serving the interests of corporations and elites. He traces the historical development of this system, highlighting the influence of Prussian and industrial models, and criticizes its negative impact on children, families, and society. Gatto contends that this system intentionally dumbs down the population and suppresses individual creativity. He advocates for a return to a more localized, student-centered approach to education.