The latest round in Canada's History Wars was set off by reports on May 2, 2013, that the Standing Committee on Canadian Heritage was going to "undertake a thorough and comprehensive review of significant aspects in Canadian history." As details of the Heritage Committee's review emerged, controversy erupted as politicians, historians,…

A number of times over the past century, there have been struggles in the United States over what is and is not included in the history curriculum. These struggles have primarily been over who is represented in the teaching of history. In Canada, however, this debate has not been as prevalent. For example, Historica's Heritage Minutes is a…

Maintains that the Holocaust is an integral part of the Canadian secondary history and social science curriculum. Asserts that pedagogical considerations for the Holocaust should not differ from the study of other major events. Discusses content selection, skill development, appropriate resources, and student sensitivities. (CFR)

Questions whether current social studies curriculum units and learning activities contribute to the goals of citizenship education. Contends that student attitudes about citizenship are seldom affected by typical social studies instruction. Asserts that teachers must understand and accept larger educational goals and develop classroom activities…

Presents an overview of ethnohistory, a relatively new area of historical investigation that draws on anthropology, geography, and linguistics, as well as history, to document the pasts of predominantly indigenous peoples. Encourages social studies teachers to take notice of a major body of work being produced by Canadian ethnohistorians. (DSK)

Reviews books on Canadian Indian history for use by history teachers. Argues that this selection of books will help stimulate student interest in history by making the curriculum more relevant and by using seldom-presented materials. Provides ideas for further sources of information about Canadian Indian history. (DSK)

Traces challenges to history's place in Canadian school curricula during the 20th century. Argues that while citizenship goals have provided the rationale for teaching history, history as a vehicle of citizenship education has come under assault. Considers the question of inclusion in the historical narrative and how it has been addressed. (DSK)

Focuses on the use of storytelling as a means of teaching history. Explores the ideas presented by Charles McMurry in his handbook "Special Method in History" that addresses the use of stories in teaching. States that McMurry thought history could be interesting and tangible for even the youngest child. (CMK)