Exploring the Craft of Chronicles
At Bronx Science High School in New York, two dedicated teachers, Mariam Samake and Sonali Campbell, embarked on a mission in 2017 to redefine the way history is taught. The school, known for its rigorous academic environment, faces a significant disparity in education, resources, and opportunities compared to average local high schools.
In the classroom of history teacher Mr. Gonzowitz, the focus is on creating critical consumers. He believes that understanding the past, particularly the manipulation of history, is crucial in today's world. This is evidenced by historical examples such as Adolf Hitler's control over media, education, and use of propaganda to influence public opinion.
Historical revisionism, a tactic used for thousands of years to manipulate history, is a common challenge societies face. Mr. Gonzowitz teaches his students about the history of propaganda, from classical speeches to modern control of education and media.
Emilia Wang McKinney, a student of yesteryears, learned about historical figures from her teachers. She emphasizes the importance of being an active participant in history, questioning and being curious. This approach is echoed by Herodotus, the father of history, who believed in getting eye witness accounts, using reason, and learning both sides of every story.
Mr. Gonzowitz, however, has reservations about textbooks. He believes that they can go from being a resource to the core ideals of a classroom, and that's where it goes south. He does not provide textbooks to his students, instead encouraging them to supplement their learning with various sources.
Teachers have the power to shape the narrative and craft a certain version of history. This disparity in education can be attributed to the concentration of teacher talent at schools like Bronx Science. Mr. Schorr, however, questions the feasibility of maintaining an army of motivated and scholarly teachers.
Despite the challenges, Mr. Gonzowitz continues to push for change, having edited and written for textbooks. He has also pointed out issues with the way textbooks describe slavery and governance. His commitment to fostering critical thinking and student confidence is a testament to the transformative power of education.
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