William J. Bennett is the author of "America: The Last Best Hope, Volume 2 (From a World at War to the Triumph of Freedom)" and the Washington fellow of the Claremont Institute. He used to host Bill Bennett's "Morning in America", one of the best conservative talk radio shows.
As we celebrate July 4th and another Independence Day, I agree with Mr. Bennett that our kids are not getting enough history in school:
"(Pulitzer Prize-winning historian David) McCullough is right, and it is a double tragedy:
a) our children no longer know their country’s history and
b) the story they do not know is the greatest political story ever told. It is not our children’s fault. Our country’s adults are expected to instill a love of country in its children, but the greatness and purpose of that country are mocked by the chattering classes:
Newspaper columns and television reports drip with a constant cynicism about America while doubts about her motives on the world stage are the coin of the realm.
Too many commentators are too ready to believe the worst about our leaders and our country, and our children’s history books — and even some of the teachers — close off any remaining possibility of helping children learn about their country." (Our National Alienation & Amnesia)
Let's commit ourselves to teaching kids about US History. Why? Because kids need to know where they came from. Also, US history is the greatest story ever told.
As a naturalized citizen, I'm appalled at the number of fellow Americans who are so ignorant of their history. It amazes me that so few kids know about James Monroe or James Madison. What about Teddy Roosevelt?
Let's teach kids about our history and we will be a better nation!
Let's commit ourselves to teaching kids about US History. Why? Because kids need to know where they came from. Also, US history is the greatest story ever told.
Get your son or daughter a copy of this book for their birthdays: