This popular book provides a comprehensive overview of the history of American education and serves as a quick reference of the most important persons, dates, events, and movements that shaped the nation's system of education. Explores the background behind the growth and evolution of education in our society, including influential movements in educational history and influential leaders. Examines the most recent legislation, court decisions, and government policies, including programs initiated by the current administration to enhance the learning environment of children at risk for school failure. Discusses contemporary issues, such as inclusion for exceptional children, outcomes-based education, multiculturalism, The Civil Rights Act of 1991, the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (IDEA), efforts to achieve gender equity, and the new emphasis on gender issues within or from a historical perspective. Projects current trends into the 21st century and reflects the work of such popular authors as Arthur Wirth, John Naisbitt, Alvin Toffler, Joseph Coates, Paul Kennedy, Wendell Bell, and C. Owen Paepke. For educators at all levels.