Why does high school end at 18 years old/12th grade in the US?

by Not_An_Ambulance

Every US states ends high school at 18 and 12th grade, but from a certain perspective it seems a little arbitrary to me. I'm assuming there is a historical reason for this age. If it has something to do with that being when one is no longer a minor, then why is that the age? From a science perspective it's also fairly arbitrary for it to be 18 as well...

EdHistory101

I've answered questions about this topic in a few different ways but I'm always happy to answer any follow up questions you may have!