This essay, first presented in the event booklet for CIE’s 1998 Colloquium on World History, describes CIE’s approach to discussing the debate over the purpose, content and definition of world history.
The Council on Islamic Education has convened this Colloquium on World History in a spirit of optimism. Through our work in the field of secondary education over the past few years, we have noted the strong belief among educators, public officials and citizens that history education deserves attention because it has an important role to play in American society. We have tapped into the rich vein of acceptance and fair-mindedness that runs deep in the character of ordinary Americans, and which seems to be even stronger among those who have chosen to work in the field of education. Through our work with scholars of our own and other organizations, we have been privileged to catch a glimpse of the exciting possibilities in bringing history education to our classrooms and beyond.
