DBQ Activity: What is the purpose of U.S. History?

Introduction: Over the past decade the teaching of US History has become a lightning rod for debates about American identity and the role of education in society. 


Some educators and academic institutions have revisited the country’s history through the lens of current political and societal debates, especially the extent to which the United States has truly been a country in which “all are created equal.” 


A new emphasis on diversifying and decolonizing* history courses has left some concerned that students are now learning only the bad parts of U.S. history while undermining the nation’s historical position as a leader of democracy and rights. 


*In this context, “decolonization” means rethinking and rewriting history to include, or even center, the perspectives, experiences, and contributions of marginalized groups, rather than the traditional Eurocentric approach to history.


Prompt: Evaluate the role of US history education in modern U.S. American society. 

Step 1:

Read through the DBQ (PDF attached below) and take notes on each author’s opinion of why students should learn U.S. History.

* You might want to open the PDF in a different tab and keep it on your screen for reference while you're taking notes and completing the assignment.

DBQ on American History Education.pdf
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Complete and Continue