Joseph Lancaster — English Educator born on November 25, 1778, died on October 23, 1838

Joseph Lancaster was an English Quaker and public education innovator... (wikipedia)

A spirit, breathing the language of independence, is natural to Englishmen, few of whom are disposed to brook compulsion, or submit to the dictates of others, when not softened by reason, or tempered with kindness.
I am persuaded, that if any attempt is made to improve the education of the poor, and such an unmanly spirit should guide the resolution of a society or committee for that purpose, it would render the design abortive.
All are agreed, that the increase of learning and good morals are great blessings to society.
The same stimulus that animates men to action, will have a proportionate effect on juvenile minds.
Indeed, I am sometimes inclined to doubt whether some men consider youth as rational and intelligent beings, with minds capable of expansion, and talents formed for usefulness.