History

I am a student of American history. To me its more than a hobby but a passion. I seek every bit of knowledge I can find in order to understand how we have arrived at where we are. I cannot fathom why the seemingly majority of people seem to be disinterested in history. I do not see how you can make an informed decision on anything unless you understand the history behind it.

In addition to the thousands of books I’ve read, and the multitude of historical locations I have the pleasure to visit, I now have an added component to aid me in interpreting history. Age and experience. My somewhat more liberal views of my 20’s, 30’s and early 40’s have now reverted to the traditional conservative views of my youth. Only this time I understand why I believe them. This time they make since to me. I accredit it to the lessons I have learned through my studies of history and age. I love history.

History is under assault these days. Revisionists have all but rewritten the post colonial expansion westward. Its depicted as a heinous assault upon Native Americans, skillfully glossing over the atrocities committed by the Indians and their roles allying themselves with enemies of the America in two wars.

The Mexican-Texas history is taught as another land grab by greed-riddled men with notions of seizing every territory they could occupy. When the true empire was the Mexican nation ruled by a military dictatorship under Santa Anna, who butchered hundred of men, women and children in his pursuit of empire.

Even recent history is being redefined. Vietnam, the Cold War, Collapse of the USSR, 9-11, and Iraq all have alternative historical views crafted by the same anti-traditionalist sources. The “Bush Lied, People died” crowd.

History has become politicized. If the facts of the past don’t suit ideology wait a few decades and rewrite anyway you wish. But history isn’t opinion its fact. In the words of Cicero:

History is the witness that testifies to the passing of time; it illumines reality, vitalizes memory, provides guidance in daily life and brings us tidings of antiquity.

Cicero (106 BC - 43 BC), Pro Publio Sestio

Share To: