why does world history suck

Yulia Chive

2 min read

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07-12-2024

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Why Does World History Suck? (And How to Make it Less So)

Let's be honest: world history, as it's often presented, can be a real drag. Endless lists of dates, names, and battles that feel disconnected from our lives. Why should we care about the Peloponnesian War or the reign of Charlemagne? It's a valid question, and one many students (and adults!) struggle with. The feeling that world history "sucks" often stems from a few key issues:

1. The Eurocentric Bias: A Very Narrow View

For a long time, world history was essentially Western history. The narratives focused heavily on Europe and its interactions with the rest of the world, often portraying other cultures as passive recipients of European influence or obstacles to European progress. This biased approach not only ignores the rich and complex histories of other civilizations but also distorts the overall narrative, presenting a skewed and incomplete picture of the past. It's like trying to understand a puzzle with half the pieces missing.

2. The "Great Man" Syndrome: Individuals Over Societies

Traditional history often focuses disproportionately on powerful individuals – kings, queens, generals – while neglecting the experiences and contributions of ordinary people. This "Great Man" theory minimizes the impact of social movements, economic changes, and the lived realities of the majority. It presents history as a series of individual actions rather than a complex interplay of societal forces. The story becomes less about the people and more about the powerful few.

3. A Chronological Desert: Dates, Dates, and More Dates

Memorizing a seemingly endless string of dates and names is a common complaint. This rote learning approach fails to engage students emotionally or intellectually. It transforms history into a dry, lifeless subject devoid of context, narrative, or human interest. Instead of understanding the why behind events, students are often left simply remembering the when.

4. The Lack of Connection to the Present: What's the Point?

Many find world history irrelevant to their present lives. The disconnect between the past and the present is a major obstacle to engagement. If students don't see the relevance of past events to contemporary issues, they're less likely to find the subject compelling. Why learn about ancient Rome if it doesn't help me understand today's political climate?

How to Make World History Less "Suck-y"

The good news is that world history doesn't have to be a boring slog. Here's how to make it more engaging:

• Embrace Diverse Perspectives: Seek out histories that center the experiences of marginalized groups and challenge Eurocentric narratives. Learn about the histories of Africa, Asia, the Americas, and Oceania on their own terms, not just in relation to Europe.
• Focus on the Human Element: Explore the lives of ordinary people alongside those of the famous. Understand history through their perspectives – their struggles, triumphs, and daily lives.
• Connect the Past to the Present: Draw parallels between historical events and contemporary issues. Show how the past shapes the present and helps us understand the world around us.
• Use Engaging Resources: Explore documentaries, historical fiction, podcasts, and interactive websites. Different media formats can make history come alive.
• Ask Questions: Don't just accept narratives passively. Critically examine sources, consider different interpretations, and form your own opinions.

World history is a vast and intricate tapestry, but it doesn't have to be a chore. By addressing the issues mentioned above and adopting a more inclusive, engaging, and relevant approach, we can transform the study of history from a tedious exercise into a fascinating journey of discovery. The past is far more interesting – and relevant – than many textbooks make it seem.