Teaching history

Like most of you, I have been puzzled as to why young people would be drawn to ISIS. I was thinking about this, and listened to a conversation bemoaning the lack of knowledge our children have about our nation's history, its heroes, patriots and its patriotic customs. There is a relationship between these two issues. To me, the most obvious answer is our children are not being taught about these subjects, and these children do not feel a strong tie to their country. It should not be surprising, then, that they are looking for whomever can make them feel an important part of something. Cults have known this and used it for years to recruit.

Young people who are looking to be part of something larger are a target audience for ISIS propaganda. ISIS is producing professional quality videos with exciting photography and background music. The message in these videos is that those who join them will become an important part of a mission for God, and they will be respected and shown gratitude for their sacrifices.

We have directed our education system to focus teaching on science, math and technology. These are critical subjects for our students but, at the same time, have we reduced the emphasis on the legacy they have been given? If we decide civics and American history are no longer important, what is the effect of this on our children? Those who do not learn about their heritage have no linkage to the past. Without that linkage, we cannot expect them to have pride in their country.

Schools can be assisted in teaching about America by asking for help from historical re-enactors, veterans' organizations and historical societies. I am not suggesting teaching a sterilized version of our history. Let our children know that when injustices have occurred in this country, some heroes have stepped forward to make things right. That ability of this country to correct and change marks us as different from many others, and that in itself is a source of pride.

When the issue is raised that our children do not display a proper love and respect for our country, ask yourself what we have done to teach them.

Jack Dragoni attended Boston College and served in the U.S. Army in Berlin and Vietnam. He lives in Chaffee, Missouri.