I can't even imagine the look they would get from people when they stepped out of something considered a must or "normal" at that time. I bet there was constant pressure on them from the society. The same things happen still today. If you are not doing something like everybody else is doing you better be sure you will be looked at like an "outacast". It is the sad truth about your society.
You parents were incredibly brave. That is something to be admired. Not an easy thing to do by any means. So hats of to your parents. :)
Oh yes, there was constant pressure. They had friends who used to ask us questions just to see if we were learning what we were supposed to. My mom had nightmares of people showing up at the door to test us and find out we were behind. Then an older friend - who homeschooled his children when it was actively illegal, not just a gray area - reminded her one day that if someone really wanted to go after us, it wouldn't matter how well we tested scholastically. She was able to relax more with the younger children; and there began to be more acceptance and even much better curriculum available.
Today homeschooling is a walk in the park compared to 30 years ago. But I do expect the climate to become hostile again as the social pendulum swings. It won't do to have children out of the system learning to think on their own. That will spoil the effect of near-total brainwashing being aimed at by those in charge of the school system today.
If you are at all able, it's worth the courage to keep your kids with you. I am overwhelmingly grateful to my parents for doing so.
I guess only time will tell. Either school system will change for the better and actually look to teach kids something or they are going to look for profit like most colleges do these days. There are some amazing teachers out there who challenge the "normal" education, but unfortunately very few. :)
I think a lot of people see right through the school system and probably starting to think the same way we do.
We will see what future will bring. Thank you for such a great conversation. Have an amazing day. :)