Here's why:
* Limited access: Access to education was limited for everyone in colonial America, not just servants. The vast majority of people, regardless of their status, were illiterate.
* Masters' influence: Some masters encouraged their servants to learn, seeing it as a way to improve their own lives and the servant's value.
* Informal learning: Servants could learn from other servants, family members, or even by observing the literate people around them.
* Religious influence: Some servants learned to read and write through religious instruction, as literacy was important for understanding the Bible.
* Individual initiative: Some servants were highly motivated to learn and would find ways to do so, even without formal education.
However, there were also barriers:
* Lack of resources: Many servants came from poor backgrounds and lacked access to books, materials, and formal instruction.
* Master's reluctance: Some masters were reluctant to allow their servants to learn, fearing they might become too independent or knowledgeable.
* Time constraints: Servants were expected to work long hours, leaving little time for learning.
In conclusion, while not guaranteed, it was possible for indentured servants to learn to read and write. The likelihood depended on individual circumstances, master's attitude, and the servant's own initiative.