"If you stop and think about our history, one of the reasons we had an American century and there is an American dream was because at key points in our history we made very bold decisions about making sure that there was very broad, universal access to quality education"

Ken Mehlman's quote highlights the pivotal function that access to quality education has played in shaping the history and success of the United States. He recommends that the idea of an "American century"-- a duration where the United States led worldwide economic, cultural, and political advancements-- along with the concept of the "American dream", is deeply rooted in the country's commitment to prevalent and fair education.

Education acts as a structure upon which a society develops its financial strength, innovation, and cultural development. Mehlman highlights that throughout substantial moments in U.S. history, the nation made bold choices to extend educational chances to a broader populace. Such decisions consist of policies like the facility of public schooling systems, the GI Bill post-World War II, and more recent legislative efforts focused on increasing college accessibility.

By reflecting on these decisions, Mehlman argues that they were instrumental in allowing the United States to grow. Educated citizens have the tools to drive technological developments, enhance performance, and enhance the democratic worths upon which the nation was built. The 'American dream'-- the goal for anybody to accomplish success and upward mobility through effort-- is elaborately gotten in touch with the capability to access quality education. Without this access, people might find it more challenging to progress financially and socially.

Therefore, the quote suggests that the success of a nation in leading internationally in numerous spheres is not simply happenstance however a result of deliberate policy-making focused on making education commonly available. Mehlman is likely advocating for continued or restored focus on academic policies that make sure no sector of the population is left behind, presuming that such efforts are essential for maintaining and broadening upon the accomplishments of the past. This approach would not only reinforce specific success stories however also stimulate nationwide growth and cohesion, supporting the idea that education is both an individual advantage and a public great.