WELLINGTON (Pacnews) — New Zealand Prime Minister’s apology to Samoa has focused attention on the teaching of local history in schools.
The revelations of dark deeds committed by New Zealand administrations in Samoa early last century came as a surprise to most people. Until the late 1940s, New Zealand history was almost non-existent in schools. The British Empire was the main focus, including the first meeting with “natives” a side-story.
But the modern version of history — which has been criticized for being overly politically correct — places Maori at the center of this country’s history. It also highlights the stories of Pacific peoples under seemingly inept New Zealand rule.
Modern prescriptions for fifth, sixth and seventh formers are heavily flavored with the history of Maori and Pakeha interaction and social trends within Maori communities.
And this year, “Why was blood spilled in Samoa in 1929?” has been developed for fifth formers taking social studies in schools with large Pacifica populations.
Dr. Hugh Laracy, a Pacific Islands history specialist, at Auckland University, has taught about New Zealand’s involvement in Samoa for some years and believes it offers fertile ground for study in schools.
“It raises questions of leadership failing under pressure — it’s a wonderful topic.”
Laracy said a lack of attention to the topic in schools meant that even some children of Samoan friends did not know what Prime Minister Helen Clark had apologized for last week.
