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1798, the first federal law that was passed for individuals with disabilities was called the “Act for Relief of Sick and Disabled Seamen”. The act was made to concentrate on seaman. It was an act that was signed by President John Adams. It authorized that a withdrawal of seaman’s wages were deducted to supply medical care as well as a formation for marine hospitals. The act launched the Public Health Service which offered medical assistance to seaman. -
1880 is when the institutionalization of individuals with disabilities was most dominant. Even though it wasn’t completely destroyed, the inclination of those who were for mass institutionalization started to lessen during the late 1900s. Particularly with the increase of the disability rights movement. -
1896, special education arose during this period. During this time period, the first special education class was opened in Rhode Island. After this, by the year, over 30,000 students were placed in special education classes. -
1930, a book called Social Control of the Mentally Deficient by Stanley Powell Davies was released. The book was prevalent and expressed the domination and restrictions of individuals with disabilities. The textbook itself was essential to shield society. -
1950s – mid 1960s, The Civil Rights Movement was a crucial movement in the U.S. that intended to terminate discrimination and segregation. Under the law, the goal was to attain equal rights for all Americans. There were many events that transpired during this time period to shed light on this topic and hopefully make changes for the better. -
1961, President John F. Kennedy selected a panel on Mental Retardation. The purpose of the panel was to create a “National Plan to Combat Mental Retardation”. A year later, in 1962, that same panel proposed a description to JFK with an summary of different recommendations that consisted of additional investigations/research, remedies and overall care. -
1968, the first ever Special Olympics transpired. This occasion pronounced a major movement as it was a movement, globally for individuals with disabilities. This event included athletes from both U.S. and Canada who were diagnosed with a disability. -
In 1973, Rehabilitation Act commenced – this Act with Section 504 specifically prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities regarding activities and programs. Judy Heumann who was an important public figure, was a major role in this Act and organized many events, sit-ins and protests to shed light on this issue. -
This law recognized specific rights for elementary school children in order for them to obtain an education that is free and appropriate. This law was passed so that all children who are handicapped are still able to receive an education just the same as others. This law also paved the way for another law called Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). -
The No Child Left Behind Act was implemented to ensure that schools held accountability for the improvement of their student’s progress and/or achievements. It was an Act that stood for equal opportunity – to certify that all students will receive a valuable education, regardless of their disability, race, status, etc.