Broadening our history horizons

What's badly needed to improve knowledge of history in the West

Among the interesting accounts I read on social media are those concerning the history of the Middle East, especially that of the Arabian Peninsula. It occurred to me how sorely lacking we in the West are in our knowledge and awareness of history not only of that part of the world, but many other parts of the world as well. And it’s costing us dearly.

This includes knowledge of the illustrious dynasties and religious scholars which ruled through the Arabian Peninsula over centuries, and continue to influence the culture and identity of the region to this day. How places like Al-Ahsa were such important centres politically, culturally and spiritually for a great part of the peninsula. We in the West are lacking in our awareness of this history. And not only about the Arabian Peninsula, but other regions as well (like the Sahel).

I’ve given thought to trying to address this myself, perhaps by undertaking a history project in collaboration with those genuinely interested. I’d find doing that a worthwhile endeavour, because it will fill vital gaps in the West’s history education (which itself is found wanting anyway). It’s too precious to ignore.