History Is Not Boring! 5 Ways To Spruce Up History
When many people hear the word "history," they often groan with dismay. After all, who cares about all those dates and facts? Why do teachers torture children by making them memorizing all those facts? The truth is that history--real history--is exciting! What exactly is history anyway? According to the new Webster dictionary it is, "The branch of knowledge that deals systematically with the recording, analyzing, and explaining of past events." But the original 1828 Noah Webster Dictionary says, "History and story are the same word differently written."
Did you notice that? Our modern idea of history is systematic recording, and the old definition is a story. Well, if history was presented in story form it would certainly be more interesting! Perhaps that is why historical fiction is so popular. If we had a choice between a 400 page dry history book and an exciting 250 page story, most of us would choose to read the shorter, more interesting book. The down side of historical fiction is that often fact and fiction are so intertwined; it is hard to tell what is true and what is made up.
Nearly everyone would agree that the story of Washington and his ragged army crossing the ice choked Delaware River is exciting. On a cold, stormy Christmas night, Washington made a daring attack on the town of Trenton. He and his men made a dangerous trip across the partly frozen Delaware River before they began marching towards Trenton. When they arrived at Trenton, only one group--led by Washington himself--had made it across the river, and they were hours late because of the storm. Nothing daunting Washington, he ordered the men to surprise the Hessian soldiers stationed at Trenton. In less than forty-five minutes the Continental Army had conquered the enemy. Washington’s victory at Trenton was a turning point of the American Revolution. After that victory, the United States began winning more battles, and they eventually won the war.
Yes, that story is exciting! But when we simply have children memorize that "On December 26, 1776, Washington defeated the Hessians at Trenton," we strip all the drama and excitement out of the event. Yes, the date is significant, but the actions of brave humans is what makes it important.
Here are 5 ways to liven up history:
1) Look for the story behind the event.
2) Find out about the people who made the event happen. They were humans just like us. What made then tick? Why did they do what they did?
3) Get a visual whenever possible. Pictures, art, and movies help bring the event alive.
4) Make a dish that would have been eaten during that era.
5) Do something hands on. Make a diorama, draw a picture, or sing a song.
History is exciting; learning about it should be enjoyable too!
Do you want really exciting history with accurate facts presented in an interesting way? Uncover Exciting History: Revealing America's Christian Heritage in Short, Easy-to-Read Nuggets by Amy Puetz offers a snapshot view of America's history from Columbus to World War II. Each chapter is short and easy to read. Find out more at amypuetz.com/
Amy Puetz is a homeschool graduate, a self-taught historian, and a servant of Jesus Christ.
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