Determinants of the Prussian campaign against illiteracy in the 19th century

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• Abstract

  This article explores on the base of recruit examinations the development and central social causes of the Prussian literacy process in the 19th century. Our research confirms for Prussia too: the early industrialization has not hindered the progress of literacy. On the contrary: especially in the regions, which were not integrated in the economic transformation, an atypical stagnation of the literacy level can be observed. Apart from the economic resources in the local context, with its importance for the progress of schooling, the homogeneity of culture and language proves to be another central factor of the literacy process through schooling. Nevertheless: the history of literacy and the history of schooling are just not the same. Even in the 19th century literacy and schooling are social phenomenons, which are related but not identical. The difference is particularly explainable through the hegemonic activities of rival social groups, which bring out literal ideologies and short-term fluctuations of reading and writing, with considerable effects for the literacy level of the masses.

• Series Information

  Historical Social Research Vol. 21, No. 1 (1996): Mixed Issue: Articles

  Starting Point and Frequency: Year: 1979, Issues per volume: 4, Volumes per year: 1

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