SKU: 48069639711
britax car seat forward facing age

britax car seat forward facing age Britax Galaxy360 Slim Rotating Convertible Car Seat

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Description

britax car seat forward facing age Britax Galaxy360 Slim Rotating Convertible Car SeatBritax Galaxy360 Slim Rotating Convertible Car Seat Parents considering the Britax Galaxy360 are usually drawn to the convenience of loading and unloading their little one without straining their back or awkwardly climbing into the car. The Galaxy360 Slim is engineered as a fully rotating (360) convertible car seat. It begins as a rear facing seat for babies and toddlers, seamlessly switching to a forward facing configuration when the time comesall

Britax Galaxy360™ Slim Rotating Convertible Car Seat

Parents considering the Britax Galaxy360 are usually drawn to the convenience of loading and unloading their little one without straining their back or awkwardly climbing into the car. The Galaxy360 Slim is engineered as a fully rotating (360°) convertible car seat. It begins as a rear-facing seat for babies and toddlers, seamlessly switching to a forward-facing configuration when the time comes—all without the need to reinstall the base. The design centers on three core benefits: single-handed rotation, a quick and straightforward installation (via ClickTight + QuickStand), and a narrow 17-inch profile to maximize room in your back seat.

  • Manufacturer size limits: 5–50 lbs. for rear-facing, 30–65 lbs. for forward-facing, with a maximum standing height of under 49” for both modes. The seat accommodates an overall weight range of 5–65 lbs., features a 10-year expiration lifespan, and includes a 1-year limited manufacturer warranty.
  • Space footprint: The Galaxy360 Slim measures precisely 17” across, with overall dimensions of 21.5” x 17” x 22”. That 17-inch width is often the deciding factor for families configuring a cramped back seat or installing multiple car seats side-by-side.

Highlights & Features

  • One-handed 360° rotation: This convertible seat spins a complete 360 degrees using just one hand, making buckling and loading effortless. Simply swivel the seat to face the open door, secure your child, and smoothly rotate it back into a locked travel position.
  • Two harnessed convertible stages: The Galaxy360 accommodates two primary growth phases: rear-facing for infants and toddlers (5–50 lbs.), followed by forward-facing (30–65 lbs.) when they are big enough to turn around. (Note: Britax strongly advises keeping children rear-facing until they reach the maximum weight or height limit specified for the seat).
  • ClickTight® installation & QuickStand™ prop: Featuring an easily accessible belt path and a simple buckle-and-click setup, installing this seat is a breeze. The built-in QuickStand™ prop keeps the seat elevated and out of your way as you work, while ClickTight® technology automatically tensions and locks the vehicle's seat belt for a fast, secure fit.
  • SwivelSmooth™ steel ring: Utilizing a wheels-on-steel mechanism, the SwivelSmooth™ ring ensures the seat rotates with a fluid, controlled, and stable glide.
  • Integrated one-piece design: The car seat and its base are constructed as a single, continuous unit that remains securely attached to one another at all times, including during the installation process.
  • 17” SpaceSaver™ profile: The seat's narrow 17-inch width is purposefully crafted to save valuable space in your back seat and fit more easily into various vehicles, all without sacrificing child comfort or safety.
  • ReboundReduce™ stability panel: When used in rear-facing mode, the base features a ReboundReduce™ panel designed to limit excessive movement during a crash.
  • Reinforced base & impact absorption: Constructed with a high-strength steel-reinforced base, the seat also boasts dual layers of energy management: a durable outer shell and a foam-lined headrest to help absorb crash forces.
  • Adjustability and recline: The seat offers a 6-position recline equipped with a simple-to-read indicator. It also includes an 11-position, no-rethread harness and headrest system that move together to easily adjust as your child grows.
  • Fabrics and cleaning: Everyday spills are easy to manage thanks to a smooth, wipeable outer shell and a SafeWash® cover that is completely washer and dryer safe. Select fashions also feature naturally flame-retardant materials crafted without added FR chemicals.
  • Dual cup holders: Includes two dishwasher-safe cup holders that securely click into place for travel and slide right out when it's time to wash them.
  • Testing & safety standards: The Galaxy360 meets FMVSS 213 standards for frontal impacts and is side-impact tested to FMVSS 213a guidelines. (Please note that FMVSS 213a side-impact standards apply strictly to harnessed children up to 43” and 40 lbs., and do not cover testing for kids exceeding those metrics).

Product Details

The appeal of the "rotating convertible"

Recognized as one of the most popular baby gear trends of the 2020s, the rotating car seat concept allows parents to pivot the seat toward the car door for easy harnessing, then lock it back into a safe travel position. Britax highlights "one-hand" operation specifically because a rotating seat is only useful if the turning mechanism is actually effortless to use.

This rotation feature is a game-changer for real-world scenarios: squeezing into tight parking spots, navigating small car doors, lifting a child into a tall SUV, or managing multiple kids simultaneously while trying to buckle one in.

Rear-facing stage (5–50 lbs., under 49”)

The American Academy of Pediatrics advises keeping toddlers and infants rear-facing for as long as possible, up to the maximum height or weight limits of their specific car seat.

Britax designates the Galaxy360’s rear-facing harnessed limits at 5–50 lbs. and a standing height under 49 inches. This is often the most extended phase of a car seat's lifespan, and historically the most physically demanding for parents loading kids at a low, awkward angle.

Forward-facing harness stage (30–65 lbs., under 49”)

Once a child exceeds the rear-facing parameters, caregivers generally transition them to a forward-facing setup, adhering to general passenger safety guidelines and the manual. Britax allows forward-facing harnessed use for kids weighing 30–65 lbs. and measuring under 49 inches tall. Since this is a 2-in-1 convertible (not a booster), the child remains in a 5-point harness during this stage, and these generous limits ensure it will accommodate most kids for several years.

Switch directions without reinstalling A major perk of the Galaxy360 is that transitioning from rear-facing to forward-facing only requires rotating the seat—you do not have to completely uninstall and reinstall the base. This is crucial because reinstallations are often when parents worry about getting the belt routing, tension, and lock-offs perfectly right again.

You still must follow standard instructions for mode-specific indicators, recline settings, and headrest positions. However, the actual directional shift is handled purely via the swivel mechanism.

ClickTight® + QuickStand™ Installation

The ClickTight® system centers on an accessible belt path inside an auto-opening seat. The process is remarkably straightforward: open the compartment, thread the seat belt through, buckle it, and snap the seat closed. A handy QuickStand™ prop keeps the seat out of your way while you work, and the ClickTight® mechanism actively tensions and locks the belt as you press it shut.

Space and Fit Planning

At just 17 inches wide, the Galaxy360 features a highly sought-after slim footprint—a critical metric for families attempting to maximize space or fit three car seats across a single row. For complete spatial planning, the official dimensions are 21.5” x 17” x 22”, alongside an 11” x 12.5” seat area (depth/width) and buckle strap depths ranging from 4” to 7.25”.

Keep in mind that while these measurements are a great baseline, actual fit varies depending on your specific vehicle. Door shapes, back seat contours, and front-to-back clearance all impact the final installation. Always verify the fit in your car and consult the manual.

Recline and Proper-Use Indicators

To help you achieve the perfect angle for your car's back seat, the Galaxy360 includes a 6-position recline with a clear indicator. It also features visual proper-use indicators for the recline, rotation, ClickTight system, and tether, removing the guesswork and providing visual confirmation that the seat is correctly locked in.

11-Position No-Rethread Harness

As your little one grows, the Galaxy360’s headrest and harness easily adjust together across 11 different positions without the hassle of rethreading the straps. Proper harness height is a frequent adjustment, so this convenience is key. For forward-facing riders, NHTSA guidelines remind parents to keep straps untwisted and flat, routing them at or slightly above the shoulders (be sure to check the seat’s manual for any specific forward-facing top-slot rules).

Safety and Energy Management

The Galaxy360 is engineered with targeted impact-management technology to maintain stability and absorb crash forces:

  • Reinforced foundation: A high-strength steel-reinforced base ensures structural integrity.
  • Rear-facing stability: The built-in anti-rebound panel, combined with the ReboundReduce™ stability panel, is crafted to reduce seat motion during a collision in rear-facing mode.
  • Energy absorption: A foam-lined headrest and protective outer shell work together to dissipate impact energy.
  • Testing criteria: The seat is tested against FMVSS 213 frontal impact regulations, as well as FMVSS 213a side-impact standards (note: the 213a side-impact standard applies exclusively to harnessed children up to 43” and 40 lbs).
Fabric Care and Cleaning

The included SafeWash® cover is completely washer and dryer safe, and select Galaxy360 fashions feature naturally flame-retardant fabrics with no added FR chemicals. For the best longevity, always brush off loose crumbs before washing and follow the specific care label instructions. For quick, on-the-go maintenance, the seat's shell is smooth and easy to wipe down after inevitable backseat spills.

Specifications

  • Seat type: 2-in-1 rotating convertible car seat (rear-facing and forward-facing harnessed).
  • Rear-facing: 5–50 lbs.; standing height under 49”.
  • Forward-facing: 30–65 lbs.; standing height under 49”.
  • Recline: 6 positions with an easy-read angle indicator.
  • Harness/headrest: 11-position no-rethread system (both adjust simultaneously).
  • Cup holders: 2 removable, dishwasher-safe cup holders.
  • Fabric/cover: Machine washable and dryer-friendly SafeWash® cover. Select fashions offer naturally flame-retardant fabric without added FR chemicals.
  • Lifespan: 10-year expiration.
  • Warranty: 1-year limited manufacturer warranty.

Dimensions

  • Product dimensions: 21.5” x 17” x 22”
  • Width: 17” (SpaceSaver™ profile)
  • Seat area (depth/width): 11” / 12.5”
  • Shoulder width: 12”
  • Buckle strap depths: 4”–7.25”
  • Harness slot heights (in): 9.75, 10.5, 11.25, 12, 12.75, 13.5, 14.25, 15, 15.75, 16.5, 17.25

What’s Included

The Britax Galaxy360 Slim box contains the car seat itself, an infant insert, and two cup holders.

Britax Galaxy360 FAQ

Shopping Questions

Is the Galaxy360 a booster?

No. It is a 2-in-1 rotating convertible seat designed for harnessed use in both forward- and rear-facing modes. It does not transition into a belt-positioning booster.

What are the size limits?

Rear-facing (harnessed): 5–50 lbs. Forward-facing (harnessed): 30–65 lbs. Standing height limit (both modes): under 49”

How wide is it?

The seat measures 17” across, with total dimensions of 21.5” x 17” x 22”.

What comes in the box?

You will receive the car seat, an infant insert, and two cup holders.

What is Albee Baby’s return policy?

We accept returns of unused, new merchandise within 60 days of delivery, provided they meet conditions such as having the original packaging. Certain special-order products are non-returnable, which will be explicitly noted on the item page.

Do I earn rewards at Albee Baby?

Absolutely. Through the Albee Baby rewards program, you can earn up to 20% back on eligible full-price gear (subject to program terms and exclusions).

General Questions

How long should my child ride rear-facing?

Experts recommend keeping your child rear-facing for as long as possible—until they max out the height or weight constraints of their seat. The Galaxy360 accommodates rear-facing riders up to 49” tall or 50 lbs.

What does “FMVSS 213a side-impact tested” mean?

FMVSS 213a is the federal safety benchmark for side-impact protection in the US. This specific standard applies to 5-point harness restraints used for children up to 43” tall or approximately 40 lbs.; it does not currently dictate side-impact testing for kids exceeding those limits.

Functionality Questions

Does the seat rotate 360 degrees?

Yes, the Galaxy360 is engineered to spin a complete 360°.

Can it switch from rear-facing to forward-facing without a reinstall?

Yes. You can transition between the two modes simply by rotating the seat, eliminating the need to completely reinstall the base. (Remember, rear-facing is highly recommended until your child hits the seat's maximum rear-facing size limits).

How many recline positions does it have?

It features 6 unique recline positions, complete with an easy-to-read indicator.

How does the harness adjust?

It utilizes a no-rethread system that allows you to adjust the headrest and harness together across 11 different height positions.

Post-Purchase & Care Questions

How do I know the installation is tight enough?

When properly installed, the car seat should not shift more than 1 inch from front-to-back or side-to-side when tested at the belt path.

Do I need to use the top tether forward-facing?

Yes, when forward-facing, you must connect and tighten the top tether to your vehicle's designated anchor. This critical step minimizes forward head excursion during a collision. Always cross-reference your vehicle's manual and the car seat user guide.

Can I machine wash the cover?

Yes. The SafeWash® cover is completely safe for both your washing machine and dryer. Be sure to check your specific cover's care label and the manual for precise washing instructions.

How long can I use the seat?

The Galaxy360 carries a 10-year expiration date. Always verify this on your specific seat's label and consult the manual.

What is the warranty?

Britax provides a 1-year limited manufacturer warranty for this model.

Shop the Britax Galaxy360 at Albee Baby

If the Galaxy360 is a top contender for you, the key metrics to remember are its single-handed 360° rotation, its narrow 17-inch width, and its robust size limits (rear-facing up to 50 lbs., forward-facing up to 65 lbs., and up to 49” tall).

When you shop with Albee Baby, you benefit from the best rewards program in the business, fast and free shipping on orders over $99, and the confidence of buying from a family retailer that has been serving parents since 1933. We’ve dedicated nearly a century to helping families, and we are so glad you are here with us today.

Shipping Notes
  • Free Standard Shipping on $100+ Orders to the USA.
  • Except Preorder products are shipped in 48 hours.
  • Delivery to the USA:
  1. Standard Shipping : 3-10 business days
  • If time is of the essence, please consider selecting expedited delivery for faster service.
Exchange/Return Notes
  • We offer a 30-day return/exchange service after receiving.
  • Final sale items are not eligible for returns or exchanges.
  • To process your return/exchange, please contact us at [email protected]
  • Please click here for more details>>> Return & Exchange Policy
SKU: 48069639711

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Product Reviews
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Verified Purchase
Dark Angel
Boise, US
★★★★★ 4
Worthwhile Read
Format: Hardcover
Extremely insightful.
WAS THIS REVIEW HELPFUL?YesReportShare
Reviewed in the United States on May 11, 2026
W
Verified Purchase
William Echols
Natrona Heights, US
★★★★★ 5
Beyond the Usual Left/Right bifurcation
When thinking about Howard Zinn's "A People's History of the United States, I am reminded of E.H. Carr's seminal work "What is History?" whereby he stated: "The belief in a hard core of historical facts existing objectively and independently of the interpretation of the historian is a preposterous fallacy, but one which it is very hard to eradicate". As Carr famously stated, millions of people had crossed the Rubicon, but only Julius Caesar's crossing in 49 BC has been given normative value by historians. For those familiar with the philosophical treatment of historical understanding in Tolstoy's War and Peace, this sentiment will ring true. A People's History is designed to give voice to those millions who passed the rubicon but never found their way into the annuals of history. A couple of points. This book was intended to be a supplement as opposed to a strictly chronological account of history that will give you the bullet points for the most important people, dates and events. [sic] It is not meant to be a replacement for a more standardized textbook. Secondly, Zinn did not hate America, and he in fact stated: "I want young people to understand that ours is a beautiful country, but it has been taken over by men who have no respect for human rights or constitutional liberties. Our people are basically decent and caring, and our highest ideals are expressed in the Declaration of Independence, which was that all of us have an equal right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. The history of our country, I point out in my book, is a striving, against corporate robber barons and war makers, to make those ideals a reality-and all of us, of whatever age, can find immense satisfaction in becoming part of that." Regardless of your political position, between the Great Recession and the Iraq war, there is a relevance to this sentiment that cuts across political lines. Now, what one will notice in the bulk of the one star reviews is the sense that either the reviewer has not read the book, they copied and pasted their criticism from another source or they have strictly given the book one star because it does not conform with their view of reality. "Blame America first", "socialism", "communism", "Marx, "liberal propaganda", you can easily get the gist of the talking points because many American conservatives apparently got the same memo in dismissing anything they don't agree with. The disservice they do to themselves and the sphere of ideas in the outright dismissal of any perspective which does not conform to their own is truly sad. When someone gives a book one star merely for not conforming to their view of reality,they have obviously lost the plot. In university I knew many conservative history professors who liked and used Zinn's work. They believed it was important to incorporate and deal with the claims that Zinn made. You cannot whitewash history and blindly stick by the most comforting narrative. That does not mean that one should agree with Zinn's conclusions or think that he has a monopoly on the truth. Zinn himself would not have wanted that. For those who claim Zinn is a socialist or any other kind of -ist, that he is not completely objective, they have obviously never done any research. Pure positivism was dismissed long ago. Even Max Webber started that our subjective bias comes in the moment we choose to study something, for by seeing the subject matter as valuable, we have placed a normative value on it. There is no pure value objectivity, stating one's position and bias from the outset is what responsible social scientists do these days. A dryly academic text with an obvious bias concealed by a detached form of writing gives a falsely omniscient perspective whose reality is psychological but not objective. However they write, they are just a person, and without expressing their biases it will inevitably turn up in their work without necessarily being obvious. This is far more dangerous than what Zinn does in stating his bias from the outset. So it is a red herring to dismiss Zinn for having a perspective. We all have one and it will come into whatever we do. There is no knowable, objective reality (for humans) living in the Platonic world of perfect forms. History was a puzzle of immeasurable size that was blown apart and the pieces scattered over the cosmos. The vast majority of the pieces are gone, never to return. We are stabbing at an imperfect speculation, not ultimate truth when we engage in historical study. Any physicist will tell you that the particle wave duality of light has pretty much closed the book on the notion that we can objectively, perfectly know anything. This book is important because the poison of partisan politics has come to dominate even the dialogue of academic research. If the sole criterion for giving a book one star is the notion that you don't agree with its thesis, then you obviously live in a fragile world and are incapable of being challenged intellectually. This book is of the upmost importance for the conservative to read and digest. In developing a coherent narrative of the United States, you need to wrestle with its sins and determine, despite our historical shortcomings and transgressions, what is it that makes this imperfect union the pinnacle of nation states if one agrees with that prospect. For the liberal, you should not view Zinn's work as the last word on anything, but rather use it as a stepping stone to further develop your own historical understanding and consider how well has American done on a relative scale in light of the political, societal and human failings that have marred all human civilizations. This book is well worth the challenges it presents, and should be a 5 star treat for the conservative who loves his country and wants to develop the most cogent and nuanced argument as to why that is the case despite those unsettling realities to be found in this book as well as the liberal who wants to give voice to his disaffection with certain aspects of American society and the reasons why we need to change it. This is not another tool in the mindless and poisonous Manichean bifurcation of American politics. It is a vehicle to help you strengthen and deepen your understanding of US history, regardless from which direction you are coming. Recommended to all who are interested in the journey of learning as opposed to a presupposed outcome that serves a vested interest.
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Reviewed in the United States on February 13, 2010
D
Verified Purchase
Dr. Lee D. Carlson
Birmingham, US
★★★★★ 5
A 50 carat learning gem
The teaching of American history in elementary and middle schools reminds one of the cleaning of a commode: any rings or crud are removed and the bowl is disinfected. It then looks shiny and pretty, as if no foul stuffs were ever deposited in it. The tall tales and antiseptic methodologies employed in the teaching of American history in these citadels of bias are finally being countered by some historians, who are also clearly biased but self-consciously so. They do not hesitate to study the foul stuffs that have been part of the history of the United States, and are willing to put up with the strong odors thereof. What results in their writings is a compilation of the facts that are left unreported by the sycophants of established educational hierarchies. The picture they paint is not a pretty one, but for those who desire the bare, naked truth, and not the stale platitudes of whitewashed historical analysis, it can be a grand viewing. The author of this book is one of these new historians, and he does not hesitate to dig deep into the real stories that have remained hidden for decades. Historical analysis of course is more then muckracking, and requires an accounting of what has occurred in the past without blinders. It also must put to rest the notion that historical events are controlled by a ruling elite, and the latter are not the distinguishing features of history. History is not a history of kings, queens, and princesses. They play a role but it is an ancillary one. The title of this book refreshingly reminds us of this. History is governed and directed by the actions of many individuals, known and unknown. The author calls them "the people", and their story is told unabashedly in this book. The author is clearly a socialist, but his attitude is one of a healthy skepticism towards government, and justified distrust of the military establishment. He reminds us that the draft was in place as early as the Revolutionary War, as were the exceptions granted for avoidance of it. For example in Connecticut Yale students and faculty were exempted from the draft, as were ministers and various government officials. There was also the familiar schism between officers and "ordinary" soldiers, and any in the latter class who chose not to respect this distinction were whipped severely. Wealthy individuals dominated the Continental Congress, but most "ordinary" soldiers were not getting paid. Some groups of "ordinary" soldiers rebelled and some executed by firing squad when the rebellion was suppressed (in one case by soldiers of George Washington himself who led the suppression). The author's commentary and documentation on the Revolutionary War certainly act as a counterexample against the belief that this war had universal support and thought of as a noble cause by the general populace of the time. The Revolutionary War, like all other wars, was an ugly, messy affair, and had its share of false patriotism, brutality, and cowardice, and it affected many other peoples that had no interest or stake in it: native American tribes such as the Iroquois and the Mohawk. These tribes did not come under the umbrella of the Declaration of Independence. Some of these tribes therefore launched, with complete justification, a guerilla war against the new American citizenry, especially when the latter decided to push westward and indulge itself in the forced acquisition of land. The author tells us of the smallpox biological warfare launched against the Appalachian tribes by the British, causing a major epidemic. He tell us of the thousands of black slaves who fought with the British in the Revolutionary War, as did the majority of the Indian tribes. He tell us of the keeping of slaves by Thomas Jefferson throughout his life, of the fact that most of the authors of the Constitution were men of wealth, and none were slaves, indentured servants, women, or men without property. He tell us of Shay's rebellion and its counter, the Riot Act, which allowed authorities to keep people in jail without trial, and of the defiance of Anne Hutchinson against the church fathers in the Massachusetts Bay Colony. He tells us of New Jersey's rescinding of women's right to vote in 1807, of a "feminist" movement as early as the 1840's, and of the founding in 1821 of the Troy Female Seminary by Emma Willard. The author reminds us that the war of 1812 was a conflict waged for expansion into Florida, Canada, and Indian territories, that Congress deliberately and without hesitation appropriated money for war against the Seminoles, and that President Van Buren openly bragged to Congress about the forced removal of Cherokees from lands east of the Mississippi. He reminds us of the doctrine of "manifest destiny" and its justification of the brutal war against Mexico waged by President James Polk in the 1840's with the jingoistic assistance of the newspapers (no other course would be rational some of them reported), with Mexico losing half its territory in the 1848 treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo. He reminds us of the Anti-Renter movement in the Hudson valley of New York, and that the Renssalaer family at one time ruled over eighty thousand tenants. He reminds us of Dorr's Rebellion in Rhode Island that attacked the idea, and its perpetrators, that only landowners could vote. So yes, there is much in this book that is fascinating and that is food for a hungry and inquisitive mind. It certainly goes against the mainstream view, and any teacher of history will probably come under fire from those who employ them if they decide to discuss the facts and analysis in this book. The history of the United States has been one of brutality mixed with brilliance, the former of which is emphasized in the pages of this book. A future treatise might emphasize the latter, and together they can give a more accurate picture of what the United States is, what it has been, and its future potential.
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Reviewed in the United States on December 30, 2006
D
Verified Purchase
Davut Habip
Chelsea, US
★★★★★ 5
An amazing book ...
Format: Paperback
An amazing book. Reading the book helped me understand why the US is experiencing difficulties in "perceived righteousness" today. I would recommend it to anyone who would like to change the World for the better. Howard Zinn is a benevolent hacker: the kind of hacker I would like my children to be, and why not: all children to be. For me, Zinn’s A People’s History of the United States hacks history and defines a problem and offers a solution: 1. The problem: a one-sided patriotic history enslaves the masses, 2. The solution: a bottom-up, humanistic history empowers everyone and opens the doors for future reconciliations among different communities.(1) At this critical juncture of human history both are relevant not only for the US but rather for our race. A one-sided patriotic bias in history: at what cost? 1. hides wrongdoings and the associated guilt, 2. serves as the first line of defense to deflect current & future criticisms for the past & current mistakes, 3. tampers data gathering, silences questioning & divergence of opinions, 4. reduces communication among communities, 5. defines “the patriotic” and increases the chances of populating the armed forces, 6. defines the other: “the unpatriotic,” 7. increases insecurities, 8. evokes fears (of retribution, etc.) 9. can be misused to justify violence against “the other,” 10. builds a common memory for the masses, builds their egos so that these egos can later be exploited, 11. allows the word “culture” to be used as an equivalence: American culture = being American; (2) 12. a politician can mix these facts to incite emotional reactions of the masses and eventually reach a higher number of votes in a predetermined direction, inexpensively, 13. at school, in the media, in speeches of politicians, and during different rituals (starting with reciting the pledge of allegiance and singing of the national anthem) the patriotic history is repeated and reinforced. Under these conditions, the masses learn to repeat what is given to them. They shun away from questioning further. Their concept of free-will is replaced by a misplaced trust. They learn not to deviate from the norm: they are enslaved and are not even aware of this enslavement. Many words lose their meaning: “a more perfect Union” “Justice” “secure the Blessings of Liberty,” “democracy.” A higher degree of cynicism and later a deep feeling of helplessness ensue. There are costs to the individual, the family, the society. Since many worldwide look up to the US morally, the use of one-sided patriotic history in the US produces world leaders who imitate bad examples. Consequently, Humanity pays dearly. A bottom-up, humanistic history empowers everyone: 1. can eliminate ignorance, 2. can eliminate convenient forgetfulness, 3. can eliminate arrogance, 4. improve self-esteem, communication, & understanding 5. can reduce violence, 6. can empower the individuals and the masses: psychologically and economically and thus improve the quality of life, 7. can help the path to sustainable peace. Among the different communities, the wounds are real. A one-sided history often does not address all of these wounds. Denial freezes any possibility of a reconciliation. A reconciliation process would pass through an acceptance of a historical wrong doing. In time, mankind may realize that what Howard Zinn has started may be the building blocks of sustainable peace. As a new year starts, I wish upon all of us: nations, creeds, ethnicities, etc. our very own Howard Zinns. (1) In the US, these communities can be whites, blacks, American Indians, Mexicans, WASPS, Catholics, Jews, Moslems, Chinese, Japanese, etc. In Turkey, where I am from, these communities include the seculars, non-seculars, Alevites, Armenians, Greeks, Jews, Kurds, etc. (2) Most of us are led to believe that “being” American/WASP/Jewish/Moslem/... is a “culture;” we almost always have these attributes thanks to coincidences; i.e. we are born into these “states;” how can a state that is largely a coincidence, be culture? I would suggest that only what is done through our free-will is deemed culture. Interestingly worldwide, the education systems, the media, and politicians use and propagate the word “culture” to imply largely a static state, rather than the result of a willful action.
WAS THIS REVIEW HELPFUL?YesReportShare
Reviewed in the United States on December 24, 2016
L
Verified Purchase
Lyy
Belleville, US
★★★★★ 5
Good quality
Format: School & Library Binding
Perfect!
WAS THIS REVIEW HELPFUL?YesReportShare
Reviewed in the United States on April 30, 2026

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