What were the requirements law school during early 1900s?

Law school requirements in the early 1900s varied considerably depending on the institution, but generally lacked the standardization seen today. There wasn't a universal pre-law degree requirement, and admissions criteria were often less rigorous. Here's a breakdown of what we generally know:

* No standardized undergraduate degree: Many law schools, particularly those associated with a university, preferred applicants with a college degree, but it wasn't always mandatory. Many students entered law school directly after high school or with only some college coursework. The content of that undergraduate education, if any, also varied widely.

* Entrance Exams: Some schools used rudimentary entrance exams to assess basic academic skills, but these were not standardized like the LSAT is today. These exams might test reading comprehension, writing ability, or general knowledge.

* Recommendations: Letters of recommendation might be requested, though the formality and importance of these varied.

* Character and Moral Fitness: Many schools considered character and moral fitness crucial. This was often assessed informally through reputation, references, and sometimes interviews.

* Apprenticeships (Read and Write): A significant number of lawyers during this era were trained through apprenticeships ("reading the law"). This involved working in a lawyer's office, studying legal texts, and gaining practical experience under the supervision of a practicing attorney. This route bypassed formal law school altogether.

* Curriculum: The curriculum itself was often less theoretical and more focused on practical skills. Emphasis was placed on case study analysis, memorization of legal rules, and apprenticeship-style learning.

* Length of Study: Law school programs typically lasted two to three years, though again this varied.

Key Differences from Modern Law School:

The most striking difference between early 1900s law schools and modern ones is the lack of standardization and the prevalence of the apprenticeship system. The rise of the American Bar Association (ABA) and the increasing influence of the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching in the early to mid-20th century began to standardize requirements and raise admission standards, shifting the field away from the apprenticeship model towards a more formalized and rigorous university-based system.