Teaching Colonialism: Perspectives and Omissions in Swedish Schools

Colonialism is a complex historical topic that has had profound and lasting impacts on the world. However, the way it is addressed in school curricula can vary widely, often leading to significant omissions or skewed perspectives. In Sweden, for instance, the teaching of colonialism and its impact is limited and, at times, sidelined in the broader context of history.

Historical Context in Swedish Schools

When it comes to history in schools, the comprehensive history book typically covers just a few pages on colonialism for students in years 7 to 9. This limited coverage touches on the basic concepts: Europe's dominance through trade, technology, and violence, and the resulting cheap access to raw materials. It also delves into how this ties into imperialism and some aspects of racism.

It is worth noting that for countries that were never major colonial powers like Sweden, colonialism is taught not as a central theme but rather as part of the broader European history. This is because Sweden's main historical rivals, like Germany, were not significant players in the colonial game by the time of their decline.

Cultural and Academic Omissions

The limited coverage in Swedish schools often overlooks key aspects of colonial history. For instance, Sweden's colonial experiences were minimal and brief. It had two colonial attempts, both of which were small and ultimately unsuccessful. These territories were sold off, as the country found it difficult to afford their maintenance. This is often the extent to which colonialism is discussed in Swedish educational settings, with little to no exploration of the broader implications and discussions on racism, wealth redistribution, and the perpetuation of certain ideologies.

The Role of Money and Power

Colonialism was driven not by racism, but by the pursuit of wealth and power. Money and greed fueled both the colonial powers and their local supporters, who were often opportunistic and complicit in maintaining the status quo. This complex interplay of economics and politics is often not fully explored in school curricula, where the focus remains on the more straightforward narratives of 'right and wrong.'

Broader Historical Considerations

One aspect that is often overlooked in teaching colonialism is its continued effects, particularly in relation to the Cold War and Soviet interference in post-colonial African and Middle Eastern nations. The Cold War further shaped the political and economic landscape of newly independent countries, a facet that deserves deeper exploration but is seldom fully addressed in school history books.

Conclusion and Recommendations

Teaching colonialism in a more nuanced and comprehensive manner is crucial for a fuller understanding of global history and its current implications. Students should be exposed to a more detailed examination of the economic, political, and social dynamics that drove colonialism, as well as its long-term consequences. Additionally, the role of money and power, alongside broader historical contexts, should be more prominently featured in school curricula to ensure a more equitable and informed perspective on this critical period in world history.