Questioning History

"Questioning History is an eye opening book that provides an intelligent, thought provoking, yet simple way of examining history. This book will get you thinking about how the past has shaped our world. For so many of us, studying history in school was stale, dull and dreary. In his refreshing take on the past, Joe Regenbogen has blown away the dust by first developing a list of key open-ended questions that beg to be explored. He then goes on to provide just the right amount of background history to ground each question on a secure foundation along with insightful analysis as to how each query can reasonably be answered.

"Having taught courses for many years in the Mandel School of Applied Social Sciences at Case Western University, I have come to appreciate that the best education is rendered through open and honest discussion. I have employed this approach throughout my career in order to facilitate a deeper understanding of social theory as well as to breed greater empathy for others. Anyone looking to do the same with the subject of the past should read Questioning History. In addition to using it to lay the groundwork for classroom discussion, it should be read by all adults who want to expand their understanding of history. I only wish this book had been assigned years ago in one of my high school or college history classes. If it had, maybe the history books on my shelves would not be so dusty today."

Debby Jacobson,
School of Social Work Professor

"For history teachers who thirst for ideas, materials, books, etc., that continue the long tradition of embracing democratic education, engage students in intellectual interaction, use issues-orientated lessons, implement authentic inquiry discussions, in order to avoid the mind-numbing and anti-intellectual historical method of rote learning and memorization, this book offers an exemplary and exciting option. Mr. Regenbogen's meticulously researched and brilliant book, based on years of classroom practice and an unwavering commitment to student participatory democracy, is perhaps the most exciting and original gift to arrive for history teachers in many years. As the politics of our current time continue to force history teachers to be text-book addicted, trapping both themselves and, in turn, their students into experiencing mindless learning exercises, Mr. Regenbogen's book offers fresh ideas and actual examples of the process of learning that injects relevance and excitement into the history classroom. History teachers can use Mr. Regenbogen's excellent and carefully crafted lessons and then build their own lessons that represent the ongoing issues that confront our nation's citizens, including the young citizens in the history."

Devon Metzger,
Social Studies Education Professor

"In Questioning History, a veteran educator provides a unique perspective on teaching and understanding history. Joe Regenbogen examines human societies from the ancient world to modern times, making connections by means of essential questions. When should a nation go to war? What is the fairest way to share wealth? What is the best way to achieve equality? Regenbogen explains the value of posing such questions to stimulate critical thinking and passionate discussion among students—an alternative to teaching history merely as a set of dry facts. The book grounds abstract issues in well-chosen examples from world history, placing readers in the middle of Socrates’ trial, the Civil War’s draft riots, and Nelson Mandela’s release from a South African prison. These crucial events become a jumping-off point for interpretation.

"Even as he roams across the ages, however, Regenbogen keeps one foot planted in the classroom. He tells compelling stories from his long career as a high school history teacher, including revelatory moments from mock trials and field trips. Regenbogen shows educators how to help students understand the past, put the present in perspective, and prepare for future decisions as informed citizens. For general readers, he makes history come alive with engaging narratives and thoughtful analyses. After Questioning History, required history courses need never be boring again."

Dean Robbins,
Former editor, Isthmus

"Questioning History - 16 Essential Questions That Will Deepen Your Understanding of the Past" does exactly what the title suggests , deepen your understanding. There is no doubt that Joe Regenbogen has written a book that secondary teachers and students will dive into immediately. Each essential question causes the student to question their own thinking and this makes them, in turn, question who they are as a person. It is obvious, Mr. Regenbogen has done a splendid job preparing his students with the critical thinking skills they will need in the real world and he has decided to share his classroom teaching experiences with others, for which I am thankful. I believe Mr. Regenbogen's book is a great resource that will enrich any discussion and should be used in Social Studies classes from the Middle School, Secondary, and Post-Secondary levels."

Jim Hubbard,
Secondary Social Studies teacher