Controversy Over President Trump's Executive Order on American History

SOURCE www.npr.org
President Trump issued an executive order to restore 'truth and sanity' to American history, sparking controversy among historians and critics who believe it may erase achievements by women and minorities. Supporters argue the actions correct attempts to skew history. The battle over how the country's cultural and historical heritage should be presented reflects a larger divide in interpreting the story of the United States.

Key Points

  • Trump's order seeks to reshape how American history is presented
  • Division in interpreting the story of the United States
  • Controversy over erasing achievements of marginalized groups
  • Supporters argue for a focus on America's founding principles

Pros

  • Attempts to correct what conservatives see as attempts to skew history
  • Restores focus on America's ideals and founding principles

Cons

  • Critics worry it may erase achievements by women and minorities
  • Seen as a disturbing attack on core institutions and historians by some