Frank Laubach

Frank Charles Laubach (September 2, 1884 – June 11, 1970) was an American Christian missionary and literacy advocate, often referred to as "The Apostle to the Illiterates." He is best known for developing the "Each One Teach One" literacy method, which has been used to teach millions of people to read in their own languages.

Early Life and Education

Frank Laubach was born in Benton, Pennsylvania, to a devout Christian family. He attended Princeton University, where he earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in 1909. He later pursued theological studies at Union Theological Seminary in New York City, receiving his Bachelor of Divinity in 1913. Laubach also earned a Doctor of Philosophy degree from Columbia University in 1915.

Missionary Work

In 1915, Laubach and his wife, Effa Seely Laubach, moved to the Philippines as missionaries under the auspices of the American Board of Commissioners for Foreign Missions. They initially worked in the southern region of Mindanao, where Laubach became deeply concerned about the high rates of illiteracy among the local Moro people.

Development of "Each One Teach One"

In 1930, while working in the Philippines, Laubach developed the "Each One Teach One" literacy method. This approach was based on the idea that each literate person could teach another person to read, creating a multiplying effect. The method was simple, adaptable, and could be used in various languages and cultural contexts. Laubach's literacy campaigns were highly successful, and the method spread to over 100 countries.

Impact and Legacy

Laubach's work in literacy had a profound impact on education and social development worldwide. His methods empowered individuals by providing them with the skills to read and write, which in turn improved their economic opportunities and quality of life. Laubach's advocacy for literacy as a fundamental human right influenced educational policies and programs globally.

Publications

Frank Laubach was a prolific writer, authoring numerous books and articles on literacy, education, and spirituality. Some of his notable works include:

• Letters by a Modern Mystic (1937)
• Teaching the World to Read (1947)
• The Silent Billion Speak (1950)

Also see

• Literacy
• Missionary
• Education in the Philippines
• Adult education

External links

• Laubach Literacy International
• World Literacy Foundation