How did the introduction of universal public education affect the econimies of the united states and western europe.

Countries with universal education showed greater economic progress than countries without it.

Child labor undermined the labor force, driving down wages to the starvation level. By forcing them to go to school, mill owners had to pay better wages and take care of their workers better. Workers had more money, and they could buy the things the mill made. The mills were able to sell more stuff and make more profit.

An educated work force could participate in the value added economy.