Who Cares About History?

       So what's the big deal? So what if some states or school boards don't like the recommended history books? Let em publish their own history books. That way they can twist history around to fit their likes and dislikes. After all, isn't it true that local control of education is best for all students? That way your kids can learn a completely different history from the kids in other schools around the country. If you ask me, it would lead to more, and more confrontational, discussions.
       That way, your kids can learn about the totally benevolent America, while the other kids can learn about the, well, the truth. Like the fact that, in it's westward expansion, it didn't treat the Native Americans, the Indians, very benevolently or that America did in fact participate in the  Slave Trade voluntarily, but didn't give up Slavery voluntarily. It took a Civil War to make that happen. The point is, there is lots of good things to say about America, but unfortunately, there are some not very good things to say about America too.
       It's really important for our kids to learn the truth about the good and not so good that is America. Why do I think that? Because, as the saying goes, when it comes to history, if you don't learn from your mistakes, you're gonna make the same mistakes again. And the problem with allowing local and even state complete control over curriculum is that there's always the chance that some moron will decide that it's more important to teach their kids to have an unrealistically rosy outlook about their country than it is to teach them the whole truth.
       There's some things we really can't or shouldn't be proud of. But if future generations don't know it or won't believe it, then the future of our great country is in for a very bumpy ride. It's not a question of respecting our country, it is about respecting those who teach us about our past. Mistakes and all. Imagine how those kids will see us if we lie to them.