“Minorities”, the nation and Europe in the history textbooks of Germany, Spain and Turkey.

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    • Subject Terms:
      TURKEY
    • Abstract:
      A feature of the concept of “minorities” is the invisibility and stigmatization of communities, more so within the idea of the nation. This article analyses the representation and construction of the concepts of “Europe”, “Nation” and “Minority” in eight German, Turkish and Spanish secondary school history textbooks, particularly 16th-21st century (7th-10th grade). In times of strengthening nationalism, it is also discussed here whether the representations convey essentialist ideas and imperialistic structures hidden between the lines, or whether they reflect the concept of “minorities” as a component of a pluralistic and hybrid European society. The research is divided into two areas: A comparative quantitative research will be carried out on the representation of 'minorities' in German, Turkish and Spanish history textbooks and a qualitative hermeneutic analysis. Key findings indicate that each country predominantly imparts a history curriculum with a strong national focus, with the pronounced emphasis found in Turkish history textbooks. European-centered history is often portrayed and based on myths as emblematic of modern civilization in comparison with other civilizations or countries, especially in Spanish and German history textbooks. Similarities in the portrayal of “minorities” tend to be either nonexistent or negative, further reinforcing a sense of belonging for national identities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
    • Abstract:
      Copyright of Turkish History Education Journal (TUHED) is the property of Ahmet Simsek and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)