When did public schools first come about?

Public schools in the United States began to emerge in the early 19th century, with Massachusetts establishing the first compulsory school law in 1852. The idea of free public education gained traction during the 1800s, influenced by reformers like Horace Mann, who advocated for universal education. By the late 19th century, public school systems had been established in many states, making education accessible to a broader population.