As I have mentioned here before, my recollection of Intermediate Certificate history as taught in my particular Alma Mater is of events, places and people so distant in time and/or place. I never felt a connection or experienced a sense of inquisitiveness that I wished to pursue – something that I regularly encounter now when seeing a commemorative plaque.
I have no recollection of a school education on Fenian times, the Easter Rising or the War of Independence/Civil War period. Any interest, you may have observed in blog posts hereabout, are without the foundation of directed school learning.
The 9-year old did not enjoy the queuing too much. The ceremonial aspect of the changing of the guard definitely grabbed attention. The signing of the book; the photographers, the Mayor of Derry and Cork Lord Mayor; the guns; the guard of honour with heads bowed in respect; and, the flag over the coffin – there were all registered in the young mind.
My hope is that when it comes to Junior Cert history and the period of Republicanism, Proclamation and Civil War, that there will be a memory of last evening that will inspire interest and inquisitiveness which hopefully will lead to a greater understanding than this parent.