I never realized.

Two hundred years ago, the government of Sweden changed everything: They required all their citizens to be literate. It transformed every element of the culture and economy of Sweden, an effect that's felt to this day.

I know. Amazing, isn't it? Perhaps not surprisingly Sweden is the #1 or #2 best country to live in (depending on who you ask).

Yes, it's amazing. And Godin makes a good point here:

Teach someone to read and you guarantee that they will be able to learn forever.

Teach an entire culture to read and connections and innovations go through the roof.