If we are collectively cursed by our inability to comprehend history, historians carry the burden of seeing reminders of that ignorance everywhere. And so I feel acutely annoyed by yard signs planted in different neighborhoods of Indianapolis imploring us to “Never Forget.”  Most of the signs I see are all black with white lettering, though some also have references to the American flag or the Twin Towers or first responders. The sign’s owners I’m sure assume that the point should be self-evident, but it’s not. And my question—WHAT should we never forget?—drives my historical senses crazy. Read more