The English^1 School History Curriculum since 1945 : Its Responses to the Challenges Posed by a More Ethnically Diverse Society.

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In Britain, history has proved to be a useful subject for future politicians and civil servants both at home and in the Empire. The traditional emphasis has been upon British history, and content has focused mainly on great Englishmen and events. After the Second World War, this ′great tradition′ came to face a number of social changes which led to a crisis of traditional morals and values. The old style of teaching history, therefore, was perceived to be inadequate. The aim of this essay is to illustrate how the English school history curriculum has responded to the challenges posed by a more ethnically diverse society since 1945. Although several attempts were made in order to adjust history teaching to the changing society, the National Curriculum, first introduced in 1991, returned to the traditional content and method. This ′authorised version′ of history highlighted the common heritage and culture into which all those living in Britain, irrespective of their ethnic origins, should be assimilated. The current Labour government has continued to emphasise the common values and tradition. The outcome of this can be seen in the new National Curriculum for 2000.