Its earliest iteration traces its roots to about 1867. Where it was birthed as the Office of Education. A Bureau of the Department of the Interior. Contrary to popular belief. It wasn’t created whole cloth out of nothing by Carter. He didn’t really have much to do with its layout and duties either. I wouldn’t be shocked if he was essentially told to sign it or else.

As originally created in the 1867. It primarily was supposed to track and work with Colleges and Universities on various issues. Including preservation of historical records. As well as track stats that the Federal Government may find useful. Such as graduation rates. Degree paths etc. Its duties didn’t change overly much over the years.

What happened. As with the back story behind many Government Agencies. Congress decided to take a small portion of responsibilities and duties from one agency. Usually a Bureau or sub department with fairly limited duties. And create a whole new cabinet agency with even more responsibilities, power, and authority than it originally had.

The majority of the problems the country has had over its 250 years. Start and ultimately End with Congress.