Final answer:
Knowing the history of child labor in the U.S. during the 1900s is important to understand the reforms implemented and the progress made to protect children. The laws passed to limit child labor and reduce exploitation led to improved safety and decreased illiteracy rates.
Step-by-step explanation:
Understanding the history of child labor during the 1900s in the U.S. is important because it highlights the significant reforms and progress made to protect the welfare of young people. During this period, laws were passed to restrict child labor, leading to improved safety and reduced exploitation of children. For example, local anti-child labor organizations played a crucial role in advocating for these laws, which helped decrease the number of children involved in paid labor and contributed to a decline in illiteracy rates.