I went to school in the late 40’s through 1960 when I graduated HS. The term ADHD did not exist nor can I (or anyone I know) recall any examples of this phenomenon during our time at school. Where there disruptive kids? Sure every once in a great while, but they were easily silenced with a stare and a word from the teacher to settle down and pay attention.
Back then kids had RESPECT for the teacher and knew they would be held accountable for their actions. Kids worst fears were realized when they were sent home and could not return until Mom or Dad brought them in for a visit with the Principal.
And forget trying blame the teacher or anyone else for your misbehavior. If the teacher said you were acting in a disruptive way in class then it was case closed and guilty as charged...PERIOD. When kids are sent home today Mom and dad return with an attorney demanding an apology because their little sweetums is a “good” boy (or girl)
The education system today sucks because kids KNOW they can get away with just about anything and the teachers themselves have no sense of what constitutes correct behavior and it’s impact on the teaching environment.
Teachers know but they can’t do much. You are evaluated on the % of kids you keep in the classroom.
It’s not just about hyper behavior. A major part of ADHD is the inability to stay focused. Some kids don’t have the hyperactive part of it at all.