This presentation is a critique of modern education and attitudes regarding mathematics. Using literature reviews, historical comparisons, and personal interviews this research presentation looks at the decline of mathematical esteem in the mainstream of the American population. The decline of the importance of mathematics is reflected in educational trends in the latter half of the twentieth century. The conclusion reached in this research is that mathematics is a crucial part of every individual's life, and education needs to reflect this fact. Additionally, mathematics needs to be presented to students in a manner that makes it interesting and practical, not merely as a step toward graduation.