Lots of interesting points.

Knowing about a single state or south american country picked at random is of little value. This is teaching a skill (how to do research) rather than teaching facts.

NonPC's observation regarding specialists is spot on. Unfortunately when specialists teach they exhibit the same tunnel vision and are often unable to make any connection between their subject and practical application. For example, math teachers will teach about exponential functions in analytical geometry, but when ever did any one of them mention that it describes the flow rate change with change in level for a tank draining out the bottom?

At some point in time I was probably required to learn state capitals, but I can't ever recall needing that information in a time frame that precluded looking it up. Now, with Google at our fingertips, memorizing that information becomes an even greater waste of time. Memorizing multiplication tables is another matter. I use that every day and need it without delay.

You maybe on the T.V. show the "The Chase" and it may come in handy, LOL