You’re about to embark on a journey through the fascinating, sometimes tumultuous terrain of history education. Renowned educators Dr. Karlos Hill, from the Clara Looper Department of African American Studies at the University of Oklahoma, and Dr. Brian Hosmer, head of the OSU History Department, are in the driver seat, providing expert insights. This conversation is a response to the growing attacks on the history curriculum across the nation, a phenomenon we dissect to understand the motivations behind it.

Let’s brace ourselves as we plunge deeper into the world of history, its importance in our lives, and the standards that govern its practice. How essential is it to cultivate a historical consciousness, and what are the implications of its absence? Our expert guests guide us through these questions, opening a window into the role of critical race theory in understanding and addressing institutional racism in America. The tensions surrounding this theory are also unraveled, offering a clearer view of the societal structures that underpin racism.

Peeling back the layers further, we focus on the dangers of narrowing history down to a static list of facts and the consequences of an education system that leans heavily on a ‘founding fathers’ narrative. The conversation steers to the deeply personal side of history, discussing the trauma faced by marginalized communities and the healing potential of an inclusive history education. Finally, we learn from the past, reflecting on how the historical profession’s previous approaches to discrimination can illuminate our way forward. So, fasten your seatbelt and join us in this enlightening journey through the past, present, and future of history education.