[hinckley buzzard]

have read that the original purpose of public schooling, during and after the Industrial Revolution, was to prepare people for a life of factory work

The Founders understood that education was crucial to the survival of the Republic. There was a great debate in fact about the establishment of a National University that would be a model for the new nation, as it would need to produce and maintain an educated citizenry.

.If you like reading about the history of education try reading some that relates to America instead of England.

[Domestic Church]

If you haven't read The Underground History of American Education:

http://www.johntaylorgatto.com/chapters/index.htm