The painting titled “Pocahontas” was commissioned in 1870. How can we think critically about this painting to determine if is an accurate depiction or another example of a false narrator? Mr. McMurtry looks at the history that is known about the time of the story portrayed in the painting, and clues to discover more about…
Although idealized, the painting A Late West Coast Culture Village Scene by M. Francois Girard, was carefully researched under contract with the Canadian Museum of Civilization to illustrate many of the major characteristics of Late West Coast culture. What does this work tell us about life for these people before the coming of the Europeans,…
In this video, Mr. McMurtry will expose false narratives with a look at an iconic painting titled The Scream, by Cree artist, Kent Mugman. This work is intended to be propagandist because it’s not an accurate history. It speaks volumes about the official narrative on Indian residential schools. Art Featured: The Scream by Kent Mugman…
Jim McMurtry has dedicated his life to teaching historical truths. He is a steadfast warrior standing tall in his convictions against the gasping, whimpering left who will eventually expire under the tsunami of prevailing truths. One fateful day in late May 2021, as I was teaching Calculus 12 …, news was feverishly spread about the…
History lessons need more than just story (except in early grades). Historical fiction alone is not a good way to teach history. Here are inaccuracies to watch for. Characters: While historical fiction may be well-researched and the events presented as accurately as possible, the values of the characters will not be. Readers will not like…
Six reasons historical fiction will enhance your students’ understanding of history. You’ll see many living books and novels listed in our curriculum guides – books which will enhance the lesson or topic. Canada’s Native Long Ago includes many stories, including by First Nations authors as much as is possible. See our various book bundles for…
The curriculum from Northwoods Press takes a factual view of history with the intent to use critical thinking skills, evidence, and historical perspective to evaluate what we think of the past. Revisionist historians may highlight overlooked contributions, particularly from marginalized groups, but it must be without stifling all other narratives. We believe in preserving the…
In his article They Would Call Me a “Denier” – Let Me Explain what I Believe about Residential Schools in Canada, Rodney Clifton challenges the current narrative from his own lived experience. This post provides a short-read summary as the author uses critical thinking skills to challenge claims of ‘murder’ in residential schools. Drawing on…
The study of history offers a fertile ground for cultivating critical thinking skills in young minds. By embracing the six Historical Thinking Concepts, educators can equip students with the framework to evaluate historical events and sources with the discernment of historians. These concepts, namely Historical Significance, Evidence, Continuity and Change, Cause and Consequence, Historical Perspective,…
This Heritage Minute delves into Sir John A. Macdonald’s role in the negotiations that led to Canada’s Confederation. Click the image to view the video. The Charlottetown Conference in 1864 was attended by delegates from the Province of Canada and the leaders of the Maritime colonies. Macdonald spoke about his grand vision of a future…
