Existing comment:
The Plank -- Hitting the Nail on the Head
Committed to the growing trend for free public schools in the United States, President Grant proved to be ahead of his times. It was widely held that public education should incorporate Protestant prayers and basic religious doctrine. Catholics, however, objected and instead lobbied for tax dollars to establish their own private schools. In a speech to Union Army veterans in 1875, Grant clearly stated his position: "Leave the matter of religion to the family altar, the church, and the private school supported entirely by private contributions. Keep the church and state forever separate."
Thomas Nast, 1875 |