Response to “Learning Disabilities: Historical Perspectives”

In an age where one is frequently disappointed by receiving less than expected, Hallahan and Mercer provide more—a comprehensive history of learning disabilities beginning around 1800 and continuing to 2000. In addition, the authors provide information on related subjects: brain injuries, cerebral palsy, attention deficit disorders, and more. They divide their account into five time periods, 1800–1920; 1920–1960; 1960–1975; 1975–1985, and 1985–2000, acknowledging that the system is similar to that used by Lerner (2000), Mercer (1997), Weiderholt (1974), and Hallahan and Cruickshank (1973).