Preliminary Assignment 2

Cultural Memory that extends beyond the physical memories of its citizens is one of Santayana's criteria for being civilized.

Those who are civilized not only know the events that brought society and culture to the point it is but also recognize and understand the importance of those events that guided their civilization to the present.

Pretend you are about to compile a history book. The events you choose to include in the book ("the winners write history") will show the slant of history you will be telling. For each time period listed below, choose one event and explain briefly why you think it is the most significant event of that time period.

The most important event on campus during your high school years.

The most important event in your family during your life (NOT your birth).

The most important event (anywhere) since 1951.

The most important event (anywhere) during the twentieth century.

The most important event (anywhere) in the last 500 years.