What was The main reason education feformers wanted to establish public schools?

The main reason education reformers wanted to establish public schools was to promote social cohesion and economic progress. While various reformers had different priorities, the overarching goal was to create a more unified and prosperous society by providing a common education to all children, regardless of social class or background.

This belief stemmed from a number of factors:

* Creating a more unified citizenry: A common education was seen as crucial for instilling shared values, patriotism, and a sense of national identity, particularly important in a rapidly growing and diverse nation (like the United States in the 19th century).

* Promoting economic growth: A well-educated workforce was considered essential for a thriving economy. Public schools were meant to equip citizens with the basic skills and knowledge necessary for industrial jobs and participation in a modernizing society.

* Reducing social inequality: Though the reality often fell short of the ideal, reformers hoped that public education would provide opportunities for social mobility and reduce the disparities between different social classes.

While moral and religious instruction were often components of early public school curricula, these were typically secondary to the overarching goals of social unity and economic advancement.