Prior to the establishment of the Dept. of ill-Education, say back in the 40s 50s and 60s, when you graduated high school, you actually knew stuff. Like where England was located on world map, or how many branches of government there are in the U.S. Or who did we fight in WWII. Ask the typical HS student those questions now. You’ll get a blank stare.
I recall back in the 70s, once you graduated high school, you could save a bit and buy a HOUSE, or a CAR. Not anymore.