In this article, the author points out that in this increasingly visual world, outstanding films can engage classes and lift the curtain on the cultures and modern history of Latin America. He recommends some of the most gripping and perceptive films on this topic, and offers advice on how teachers can provide the background to these dramas and…

The rapid economic development in some regions of China over the past couple of decades has created disparities within the nation and has raised various social issues. To reduce these disparities and resolve these issues, the Chinese government has called for the creation of a more harmonious society through encouraging lifelong learning, learning…

Most historians now widely agree that the concrete accomplishments of President Kennedy were modest and that his failures and misjudgments were considerable. Yet Kennedy's image continues to shine in our historical memories with a brightness that few other figures of this century can match. Reasons are discussed. (RM)

The presidency of John F. Kennedy is assessed. Considered are J.F.K's positions on, and national and world leaders' reactions to, such issues as oil depletion allowances, the Civil Rights Bill, the Vietnam situation, and the Cold War missile gap. (RM)

Many students assume that history has nothing to do with them and therefore is a waste of their time, so finding a way to get involuntary history students truly involved in a topic is always the most challenging aspect of teaching it. As passive listeners they will remember little; as active participants they will remember more and--in at least a…

During the 1890s and the first three decades of the 20th century, social work in the United States developed a community-based direct practice approach to family assistance and social reform. The basis for this method was a situational view of social life that emphasized the use of interpersonal and transactional methods to achieve social and…

A preliminary study surveyed peace communication research in speech communication journals, covering the period from World War I through the late 20th century. The Matlon "Index" includes journals approved by the publications board of the Speech Communication Association (SCA) and was used in this project as the database for the period…

Richard Wagner was probably the most influential musician of the 19th century. However, his image as an alleged intellectual-spiritual forerunner of national socialism through his music and prose works fosters aversion among critics. Whether Wagner's complicacy of art and ideology has had any lasting consequence on his reputation is discussed. (RM)

A review of taped interviews of Canadian public figures. (MM)

In recognition of Rudolf Friml's centenary (1879-1979), his career as a composer of operettas, musical comedies, and musical satires and as a concert pianist is reviewed. (KC)

Examines lessons the natural world has taught humans in the past quarter century. Each subject, ranging from toxic pollution to the effects of regulation, illustrates the theme that the fates of people and wildlife are intertwined. (LZ)

Since the founding of the modern Chinese state in 1949 until the end of the century, China has mobilised and experienced several social/political movements and economic transformations. Entering the twenty-first century, China's repositioning within the global context has brought about its new national policy and blueprint to build a socialist…

The views of the French political leader Marcel Deat are examined to determine whether he was a fascist by conviction or a fascist by the force of circumstances created by World War II. It is shown that by 1934 Deat had clearly adopted a stance best described as national socialist. (RM)

Through a series of events in German-controlled Alsace, e.g., a Prussian military commander insulted Alsatian civilians and the French flag, the fundamental question of civilian-military relations in both Alsace-Lorraine and Germany itself was brought to the fore. How the situation was handled is discussed. (RM)

Examines military occupation force's role in shaping Japan's contemporary broadcasting system. Notes that controls placed on Japanese broadcasters were often rigorous and uncompromising, despite Washington's initial instructions to give guidance to the Japanese without overt control. Suggests that this domination created an environment conducive…