Examines ethnocentrism, focusing on the presentation of the USSR in English history textbooks. Four sections define ethnocentrism and the framework of analysis used, exemplify the framework, relate differences between the text and changes in the projected classroom context-of-use, and discuss theoretical and methodological problems raised by the…

Asserts that most representations of non-Western cultures are inherently tainted with Eurocentric and colonialist precepts. Argues for, and describes, a variety of strategies to deconstruct these perceptions. Maintains that issues of ethnicity, inclusion, and difference are more complex than normally thought. (MJP)

Reviews plans in Spain and the Americas for observances of the 1992 Columbus Quincentenary. Reflects on Indian responses to these observances and resistance to the notion of America's "discovery." Includes testimonies from Indian voices: N. Scott Momaday, Suzan Shown Harjo, Beverly Singer, Ladonna Harris, Rayna Green, and Tim Coulter.…

Discusses ways to prevent explicit racists from becoming teachers; explains how racism affects student teachers and how to test for it using measures of ethnocentrism to screen prospective students; discusses implications of misleading analyses of racism in some contemporary literature, criticizing the approach to racism in the Swann Report…

Examines the contribution of William Prescott's historical writing and the influence that it still exerts over Spanish historical scholarship in the United States. Prescott posited Spain as decadent, aristocratic, and consumed by social stratification and religious dogma, the antithesis of a vigorous and democratic United States. (MJP)

Assesses the strengths and weaknesses of the interactive CD-ROM "The Oregon Trail." Maintains that, although the program offers a sympathetic portrayal of Native Americans, it is still rife with cultural bias. The simulation's structure accentuates the white male experience at the expense of others. (MJP)