Question

Why did Puritans believe it was essential for children to be able to read and write?

so they could read the scripture
so they could conduct business
so they could teach their own children
so they could become lawyers

Answer 1

Puritans believed it was essential for children to be able to read and write primarily **so they could read the scripture**. They placed a strong emphasis on literacy so that individuals could engage directly with the Bible and understand its teachings. This was a fundamental aspect of their religious beliefs, as they valued personal interpretation of scripture. While other reasons such as conducting business or teaching their own children were also important, the ability to read and understand the Bible was paramount in their educational philosophy.