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First federal law passed concerning the care of persons with disabilities.
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. -
Period for institutionalization of people with disabilities.
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The first public special education class opened in the U.S.
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. -
Social Control of the Mentally Deficient
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. -
Civil Rights Movement
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. -
John F. Kennedy approves the formation of the President’s Panel on Mental Retardation.
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. -
First Special Olympics to take place.
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. -
Judy Huemann speaks with reporters about the newly authorized Rehabilitation Act.
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. -
Education of the Handicapped Act (EHA), Public Law (P.L.) 94-142 was passed.
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Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA), renamed the "No Child Left Behind" (NCLB) Act of 2001 have dramatically raised expectations and accountability surrounding the education of children with disabilities.
