Since the beginning of the high school education system, the United States government has heavily emphasized the American perspective of historical events. The educational standards and curriculum requirements shown in high school material are set by the state and national government. Meaning, textbooks are geared towards how America views their own achievements and values. There are now deficiencies taught in American history classes which severely limits individual understanding of global issues and cultures.

The “White Washed” version of history shown in American textbooks have prioritized themselves as saviors. At times, the curriculum is designed to downplay and belittle the true experiences of the contributions of marginalized groups such as the following: Indigenous people, Asian Americans, African Americans, Latinos and other minorities. How did Christopher Colubmus’s journey to America really affect those who were already here? How did America contribute to what really happened in the Vietnam War of 1975? With these changes, it is understood that it requires proper training for teachers, rewriting the educational textbooks, and investment into learning how to connect and integrate all points of views.

When it comes to teaching in high schools, the United States must have more inclusive and comprehensive standards in history curriculum. The incorporation of diverse narratives will provide a more well-rounded education to history, society, and culture.