This paper traces the development of professionalism in teacher education. While examining the history of education in the United States from the early nineteenth century to the present, the author considers the effects of the industrial revolution and lowered standards during the teacher shortage of the 1950s. Current issues in professionalism are identified as the increased emphasis on academic subjects in teacher education programs, increased student-teaching experience and higher admission standards, increased militancy in the local and state professional negotiations, the need for more educators with doctor of arts degrees, the problems caused by teacher tenure, the need for greater academic freedom, the growth of differential staffing, lack of cooperation between teachers and administrators, and accreditation and licensing of teachers. In addition the author discusses the differences between education as a profession and other professions. (MBM)