Wearing the kilt in Scotland

[Leatherneck Donald]

We in the US (specifically California) get a very one-sided education regarding the Revolution and the War Between the States. Very little information about pre-Revolution, antibellum, or post-bellum. No mention whatsoever of westward expansion except for the California Gold Rush, Lewis and Clark's expedition, and Manifest Destiny (which is, ashamedly, preached as Gospel). Brief plot points about the Louisiana Purchase (Napoleon Bonaparte's predicament there being glossed ver greatly). The War of 1812 is usually not taught at all.

History seems to truly be a shortfall in most any education system. I recall being in High School in Virginia in the early 80s, US history essentially started with Columbus, then Jamestown (never mind the grand civilizations that existed pre-European arrival), hit the highlights of the various 19th century wars, the industrial revolution, WWI, the Great Depression, then, "the Japanese bombed Pearl Harbor, enjoy your summer vacation." I presume that anything beyond that, we were expected to ask our parents and grandparents about. These days, US history classes give an even more cursory glance, and continue up through the current president's election. There is just too much information for too little time, and with standardized testing and whatnot, teachers, even the most enthusiastic and talented, can do little more than spark the aforementioned "spark."

To keep this on topic, someday I hope to tour Scotland and plan to respectfully wear the kilt and accouterments to show my appreciation for their culture and history.