Literacy Expansion explores the historical journey of how literacy evolved from a rare skill to a widespread necessity. It examines the interplay of printing technology, such as the printing press, educational reforms, and social movements in shaping global literacy rates. The book uniquely connects technological advancements with social changes, highlighting literacy as a tool for both individual empowerment and collective progress. For instance, the rise of mass education in the 18th and 19th centuries significantly altered societal structures and opportunities. This historical textbook analyzes literacy expansion through a chronological and thematic structure, beginning with pre-printing press eras and progressing to modern digital literacy. By incorporating data from UNESCO and other sources, the book provides an evidence-based analysis, avoiding anecdotal narratives. The educational reforms and social movements, discussed in the book, are key to understanding how literacy became a cornerstone of modern society. The book concludes by addressing the current state of global literacy and the challenges ahead, particularly in marginalized communities, and the implications of digital literacy.
