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Q.February is Black History Month. What are some examples of racism in historic educational literature? Also, why do we have Black History Month? A. Black History Month in the United States is a time of remembrance and celebration honoring the contributions and history of African Americans throughout the United States. It is particularly important because so much African American history has been diminished, obscured, ignored and outright dismissed by historians and, unfortunately, the public school system. As a collector of late 19thand early-20th century juvenile history and geography textbooks, I see this firsthand.* Many of the books in my collection often only mention African Americans in terms of their skin color and “characteristics” of their race. School books at this time focused on “levels of civilization.” People were “classified” in a pseudo-scientific way as “red, black, yellow and white.” For example, In the book titled, “The Elementary Geography Book” published as part of the Indiana Educational Series from the Indiana School Book Co., 1889, the levels of “civilization” and “Races of Men” are discussed in detail (p.20). Public schools throughout the country used this book to teach children not only geography, but overt racism. At one point the book blatantly says, “The white race is called the Caucasian. It is the ruling race of the world.” (p.20) The writing exercise in this chapter of the book asked the children to: 01/29/2023 05:00 AM

Exploring Nature

Exploring Nature: Bird Facts

Today, let us consider five interesting facts about birds. 01/29/2023 05:00 AM

Moonlight Serenade Dance set for February at Wimberley Community Center

Moonlight Serenade Dance set for February at Wimberley Community Center

01/26/2023 06:40 PM

The basics of container gardening

The basics of container gardening

Gardening is a rewarding hobby that has been linked to health benefits like reduced stress and improved mental well-being. Gardening also can lead to an inviting home landscape full of attractive blooms and/or delicious foods. 01/22/2023 05:00 AM

SMAL receives $10,000 NEA grant for citywide art exhibit

SMAL receives $10,000 NEA grant for citywide art exhibit

The San Marcos Art League recently announced it has been approved by the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) to receive a Challenge America award of $10,000. This grant will support a city-wide exhibition of the art of Roberto Rios. This grant is one of 262 Challenge America awards totaling $2.62 million that were announced by the NEA as part of its first round of fiscal year 2023 grants. 01/22/2023 05:00 AM

Mind Windows

‘The Art of Roberto Rios’ on display in various galleries 01/22/2023 05:00 AM

Exploring Nature

Exploring Nature: American Robin

2023 is shaping up as the year of the robin for me. 01/22/2023 05:00 AM

Answers to Go

Q.What is the Lunar New Year? Is it the same as Chinese New Year? A. Yes, Lunar New Year is the same as Chinese New Year. It is also referred to as the Spring Festival, bringing hope for a good harvest in the year to come. In 2023, Lunar New Year is Jan. 22. 01/22/2023 05:00 AM

'TEXAS' SWEETHEART': New Texas legend Bri Bagwell set to perform in San Marcos on Friday

'TEXAS' SWEETHEART': New Texas legend Bri Bagwell set to perform in San Marcos on Friday

01/19/2023 07:18 PM

City of San Marcos Parks and Recreation hosts Community Tree Giveaway

City of San Marcos Parks and Recreation hosts Community Tree Giveaway

01/19/2023 06:59 PM

'Pretty Woman: The Musical' open this week at Bass Concert Hall

'Pretty Woman: The Musical' open this week at Bass Concert Hall

01/19/2023 06:53 PM

The many benefits of common houseplants

The many benefits of common houseplants

The lines between the outdoors and indoors are being blurred. Homeowners build extensive outdoor living spaces so they can relax on weather-resistant furniture and even cook in lavish kitchens in their backyards. In addition, indoor three-season rooms full of bright, open windows that showcase outdoor vistas challenge the boundaries between outside and inside. 01/15/2023 05:00 AM

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