What was a key belief held by those promoting education for freed slaves?

Promoters of education for freed slaves believed that education was essential for achieving power and agency in a post-slavery society. They understood that literacy and knowledge could enable freed individuals to advocate for their rights, participate effectively in civic life, and elevate their socio-economic status. Furthermore, education was seen as a pathway to empower African Americans to challenge systemic inequalities and demand their rightful place in society, which was particularly critical in the Reconstruction era when former slaves faced immense social and political challenges. This belief stems from the idea that an educated populace could better articulate their needs and assert their rights, thus fostering a more just and equitable society.