18. Using films and discussing the inaccuracies within
Historical films, even some documentaries, often present the American past inaccurately. Film is an enjoyable way of presenting history to students at home, with a discussion of the inaccuracies following the viewing providing an excellent means of teaching. Films have long been a source of myths infesting America’s view of its past, starting with the early westerns. Viewing westerns gives the impression that the Old West was a largely lawless place, with bank robberies common in all western towns. According to a University of Dayton estimate, about a dozen bank robberies occurred in the Old West from 1859 to 1900, less than occurs in many American cities annually. The west was a largely law-abiding place, with most towns establishing laws limiting the carrying of firearms.
Films such as The Best Years of Our Lives belie the commonly held belief that American veterans of World War II had little difficulty assimilating into civilian life following their service. Used to teach older children, the film addresses the difficulties encountered by many veterans disabled due to wounds, suffering from what later became known as post-traumatic stress disorder, finding work, and re-establishing personal relationships. Made contemporaneously (1946), it offers an opportunity to present history with ramifications in the present. Using age-appropriate film as a teaching tool introduces students to specific events in American history, when supplemented by accurate information and background materials.