Why Study History?

         In our social studies class, we have talked about how important it is to study history and incorporate it into the classroom.  However, because of the criteria that teachers have to meet, History often times gets brushed under the rug. Many people do not understand why history should be studied when we live in the present.  They don't see how history effects us today.  In our class discussions, we brought up the many reasons why history has to be a part of a classroom curriculum. 
       History shows children where they came from.  It provides identity.  Learning about family history helps people define who they are.  Learning about the history of our country does the same thing.  In order to be a patriotic citizen, children need to be able to identify themselves with their country, and that happens by learning it's history.
      Learning history also allows children to understand change and shows them that things haven't always been one way.  It gives them an idea about how societies are formed and appropriate social practices.  Learning about history also enhances children's morals. Because history repeats itself, studying it allows children to see and learn from the mistakes or the past.