Through the Western gaze: Chinese History in Ontario High School World History Curriculum and textbooks, 1947 to 1990

• In Event: Roundtable Session 4
  In Roundtable Session: International Perspectives on History Curricula and Textbooks

Abstract

This study surveys the representations of Chinese History in the Ontario High School History Curriculum from 1947 to 1990. Using textbooks and curriculum documents sites of historical memory and commemoration, this paper contributes to an understanding of the conceptions of Chinese History in the school curriculum in Ontario, which was seen through the Western gaze. From the onset, Chinese history was that was represented was a Western centric one. There was also little mention on the role of women. The increase in the content of Chinese history that was taught over the years ironically took place at the time where the role of history in schools declined. More China history is being taught, but less students are learning it.

Author

• Yeow Tong Chia, The University of Sydney