American education 1895 vs today
Here is an 8th grade test for <a href="http://mwhodges.home.att.net/1895-test.htm'>; 1895. I'm well read and well educated with SATs (before number inflation) over 1400 and with a bachelors and a masters degree. But I couldn't pass it even though I know geography and history quite well compared to students with today's curricula. Our kids today have no chance, but hey, they're learning about diversity, transexuals and other real important topics. Admitedly, we can all find items on this late 19th century test that we would say are not important core knowlege for the emerging 21st century.
Enjoy!