Watch Part I of The Price of Silence, which tells a more complex narrative of New Jersey's history with slavery. Part II can also be found on YouTube.

History is often portrayed as a documentation of the extraordinary members of our society. However, this framework is limiting and does not express the sentiments that many historians share. As future history teachers, we must adopt the mindset that all history deserves to be told, preserved, and cared for. Our students deserve to know the full truth about the region in which they reside and American and global history. Local history can often tell a more nuanced, cultural-based perspective on history that is erased by our history curriculums. 

Local History is American History. 

Local history includes local customs, artifacts, landmarks, and more. 

Take Advantage of a Local History Lesson Outline Provided by the Library of Congress!

Teaching local history prepares our students to become members of our society, understanding their civic duties and the roots of the land that they live on. It allows students to create change and build community within their towns and cities. As we acknowledge inequities in education, our students must also be aware of the systemic barriers to education, wealth, and other resources that individuals in their communities face.

When we teach local history, we encourage our students to participate in their communities. Students can better connect with their homes, schools, and neighbors, and they learn to tell more holistic narratives. Not only their communities but students can be inspired to pursue an interest in history as it is more meaningful to them: a direct connection to their lives. Local history can also help navigate students through the process of reconnecting with their heritage, a process that is stripped from most of our students.