Arab Educational Information Network

This paper synthesizes the extant literature on history education in Lebanon. The sectarian nature of the country and the recent civil war make the case of Lebanon a unique and compelling one. Three emerging understandings underscore the complexity of history education in Lebanon and demonstrate the ways in which history is used to undercut national social cohesion. First, history education in Lebanon is influenced by the tradition of parochial or confessional schools dating to the hands-off approach of the Ottoman colonial powers. Second, the delay of a state-sanctioned national curriculum has paralyzed educators who have been left to piece together their own curriculum. Third, the political gridlock in Lebanon continues to make history education a contentious topic. (As Provided)