What reform is Horace Mann most known for?

Horace Mann is most recognized for his significant contributions to educational reform in the early 19th century. He was a passionate advocate for public education and believed in the importance of creating a system where education was accessible to all children, regardless of their socio-economic background. Mann argued for the establishment of free public schools, the training of professional teachers, and a standardized curriculum, which laid the foundation for the modern public education system in the United States. His efforts were vital in promoting the idea that education is a fundamental right and is essential for a democratic society. This movement greatly improved literacy rates and educational opportunities in America, making educational reform the hallmark of Mann's legacy.