It is never possible to cover ALL of history. There is simply too much.
So ALL history is a distillation focusing on whatever the author considers to be most important and relevant. But, of course, different people have different concerns and think different things are important.
So, yes, talk about how the US 'fought against Communism'. But also point out how that frequently meant supporting ruthless dictators and overthrowing democracies we didn't like. Talk about slavery, Jim Crow, and the commonplace racism of everyday life. But also show how certain goals, while imperfectly instituted in practice, have become closer to reality. Talk about religious freedom, but realize the Pilgrims weren't the best example of religious tolerance. Talk about Westward expansion and opening up the frontier, but also realize the land was occupied before by cultures with deep roots. Point out that the South lost the Civil War, but some continued to fight in others ways, right down to the present.
The problem is that there is simply not enough time in a school year to cover everything. An hour or two a week can only cover a small part of what could be useful information. A LOT will be left untaught no matter what is done. Maybe, just maybe, though, some appreciation for history can be produced and a willingness to learn more by going to a library or reading a book.
Most real education occurs outside of a classroom. If all you do is what is required for the courses in school, you *will* end up uneducated.
