On This Day: 8 December 1913

106 years ago, Maria Montessori travelled to America for the first time for a brief lecture tour and visits with influential educational groups. On 8 December 1913 she spoke to a capacity filled Carnegie Hall on her method of education and created quite a sensation.

On the cartoon we see to the far right the imposing figure of Maria Montessori addressing the audience, with right behind her Anne George, one of her first international students who was to work closely with her for a number of years. On this occasion Ms George acted as Montessori’s translator. Sitting in the background we can see Sam McClure, who had been instrumental in arranging this promotional tour, and publishing many articles on Montessori education in his popular McClure’s Magazine.