History
Catherine Beecher and Ellen Swallow Richards are considered key pioneers in the development of domestic science and home economics in addition to pioneering work taking place in Europe. In North America, the field underwent key developments at a series of "Lake Placid Conventions" organized by Richards and others beginning in 1899. At the first conference, the term "home economics" was selected to describe the domain. Richards then founded the American Home Economics Association (now called the American Association of Family and Consumer Sciences) in 1909.
In the 19th century, home economics classes were intended to ready young women for their duties in the home in healthy environments. Classes were first offered in the United States, Canada, Germany and Great Britain, followed by Latin America, Asia, and Africa. International organizations such as those associated with the United Nations have been involved in starting home economics programs around the world.
Read more about this topic: Home Economics
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