Built Quote by Howard Zinn
“The function of traditional history is to create a citizenry that looks to the top - the president, Congress, the Supreme Court - to make the important decisions. That's what traditional history is all about: the laws that were passed, the decisions made by the court. So much of history is built around "the great men." All of that is very anti-democratic.”
About This Quote
Source Book: A People's History of the United States, 1980
Traditional history emphasizes elite figures and institutions, marginalizing ordinary people and democratic participation.
In simple terms: History often focuses on powerful leaders, ignoring common citizens.
Key Takeaway
Question dominant narratives.
Themes
democracy
history
power structures
Mood
critical
thought‑provoking
Type
analytical
activist
When to use this quote
- education
- policy making
- media analysis
Key Concepts
critical theory
social justice
historical revisionism
Questions to Reflect On
- Who decides which stories are told?
- How can we include everyday voices in history?
