Maintains that over 50 years ago the American Historical Association began to reshape history and social education. Asserts that only recently have professional historians begun to become reinvolved in history instruction in the schools. Describes the efforts to create National History Standards in both world and U.S. history. (CFR)

Maintains that the National History Standards are a collaboration among classroom teachers, scholars, and curriculum specialists. Discusses the process used to develop the history standards. Asserts that the most contentious issue was the treatment of western civilization in the presentation of historical criteria. (CFR)

Asserts that professors of U.S. history have an important stake in the publication of standards for teaching history in the public schools. Discusses the development of the standards and controversies that emerged. Concludes that college historians will benefit if the voluntary standards are implemented. (CFR)