History

History is the story of the world and its people, from the beginning of human history until today. It encompasses not only what we think of as "history", but also economics, governments and political systems, religions and geography. Each of these strands is important for students to understand the increasingly difficult situations in the world and how our country influences events in far away places.

The United States is the world’s largest economy, followed by Japan, Germany, the United Kingdom, and California (if we were our own country). Shifts in historical trends, economic conditions, cultural exchanges, and demographics have created a greater need than ever before for understanding the foundational ideas and philosophy of our country. At River Springs, we want all students to become prepared to participate successfully in events of local, state, national, and international significance. To do so, they need a solid background in history, the social sciences, and the humanities. All students should comprehend ideas central to liberty, responsible citizenship, and representative government and how these elements have evolved into institutions and practices that guide their decision making as future voters and leaders.

Today, the only prediction that can be made with certainty is that the world of the future will be characterized by continuity and change. The study of continuity and change is, as it happens, the main focus of the history–social science curriculum. While it is possible to spend a lifetime studying history and not learn about every significant historical event, students of history will learn to distinguish the important from the unimportant, to recognize vital connections between the present and the past, and to appreciate universal historical themes and dilemmas.