This monograph traces the history of Iowa State University from its founding in 1868 to 1982. Following a brief description of the background of teacher training in the ancient world, and its development in Europe and subsequently the United States, the foundations laid for an educational system in mid-western United States are discussed. Iowa State University grew from foundations similar to other land grant universities, and had in common with many of them an emphasis upon agricultural education. The expansion and broadening of the curriculum of the school is described, illuminated in several instances by personal narrative of outstanding teachers and leaders who directed the course of the school as it entered the 20th century. Changes in educational philosophy in Iowa are described, focusing, in part, on the gradual growth of consolidated public schools and the development of colleges and universities to accommodate and train their graduates. (JD)