History - its in the Past !
The recent government decision to modify the history programme in the curriculum makes stark reading. It may not be one of the “easy” subjects but one of the most influential in future long term decisions. It does not need to to be the heavy subject some of us think it is - just take a look at our history games .
Placing the events of history in context is essential if we are to learn cause and effect. The future leaders of the UK are currently in school. It is vital they as well as the rest of us comprehend the potential behind any future decisions that involve country borders, cultures, religion, industry, economics, social reforms and past conflict etc. etc.see world war games.
Maybe a few of the current leaders would benefit from an immersion in history to develop the vital insight able to guide future decisions and avoid repeating mistakes of the past.
Echoing A.J.P.Taylor’s quote - ironically also featured in the recent film the “History Boys” - “History, its one thing after another” we should add that other maxim - what goes round comes round. History surely provides the best perception of what is coming round.
Alistair Owens
reading and poetry games from www.keen2learn.co.uk
