Describe the history of how society has reacted to the needs of people dealing with disabilities in America. What happened during colonial times? The Industrial Age? The 20th century and beyond? What changes may be yet to come?

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

While indigenous people had no concept of disability, colonists believed that people with disabilities should not be punished for breaking particular laws. They were generally left to their family for care, although sometimes communities had to take over care when the family could not adequately do so or was absent. In the late 1800s, people were more likely to be institutionalized and mistreated in a misguided effort to "cure" them or, at least, keep them separated from the rest of society. War and industrialization brought with them increased risk of life-altering injuries, changing the way we felt some physical disabilities should be handled. As we moved toward deinstitutionalization, independent living became the goal, but some people with disabilities needed greater support. The ADA brought about many positive changes in the 1990s aimed at increasing access and resources for people with disabilities while reducing discrimination. The Community Living Initiative and the Affordable Care Act are recent changes in the way we handle disability services.