The education of children with disabilities in Germany: From 1945--1970

This study explores the development of education for students with disabilities in the German states of Bavaria and Hesse from 1945--1970. The influence of the United States government on public education in Bavaria and Hesse during the time period is of particular interest. The laws governing the German and American public education for students with disabilities and historical educational factors provide the background information for this study. Except for numerical statistics from the Ministry of Education, primary source documents written in English are examined. The influence of parents and teachers is considered as a contributing factor for the evolution of educational services for students with disabilities in Bavaria and Hesse.; This study found six points of reference to account for changes to public education in Bavaria and Hesse post World War II. They are: the state constitutions of Bavaria and Hesse, the involvement of the Catholic Church, the influence of the Christian Social Union and Social Democratic political parties, and the actions of individuals. The influence from the United States and the influence of the German federal government are also contributing factors.; The recommendations for future research include continued investigation of the involvement of the United States on public education for students with disabilities in Germany after World War II. An examination of the status of education for students with disabilities in Germany, a comparative study of German and English documents relevant to these historical events, and a review of education for students with disabilities in other German states during this same time period will enrich this field of study. Finally, an examination of recently expanded and related outcomes of the German public school system, with respect to students with disabilities, will add to this body of research.