A recent inquiry posed by a former student and colleague prompted deep reflection on the significant changes experienced over the decades. The question, “What is one change that has been significant from the time you were a child until now?” resonated with John Schmoyer, a retired history teacher, as he considered the vast evolution witnessed during his lifetime.
Legacy of a Great-Grandfather
Schmoyer recalled his great-grandfather, Elmer Schmoyer, born in 1870. Living through a period marked by dramatic innovation and historical upheaval, Elmer’s life spanned numerous significant events, from the assassination of Abraham Lincoln to the technological advancements of the 20th century. He passed away in 1973, the same year Schmoyer graduated from high school, leaving behind a legacy intertwined with pivotal moments in history.
Elmer experienced key events such as the Spanish-American War in 1898, and both World War I and World War II. His experiences were complemented by family connections to the war efforts; his son worked at the Trojan Powder Company and his grandson served in the 64th Topographers Division, contributing to military strategies in the Pacific Theater. Such a family history provided a personal connection to broader historical narratives.
The Shift in Information Access
Reflecting on the present, Schmoyer noted a stark contrast in how information is consumed today. He emphasized the impact of modern technology, stating that access to information has become both overwhelmingly abundant and, at times, misleading or biased. “For a high percentage of Americans, it tends to be misleading, biased, sensationalized, untrue,” he remarked, highlighting concerns surrounding the quality of information available.
In stark contrast to his childhood, where television was limited to a few channels and the news was presented by trusted figures such as Walter Cronkite, today’s media landscape is saturated with diverse voices, often leading to confusion and division among audiences. Schmoyer reminisced about growing up with three sisters, competing for airtime on just a handful of channels. “You believed what you saw and filtered through what you heard,” he explained.
This evolution in media has significant implications for society. In Schmoyer’s view, the responsibility now lies with individuals to critically evaluate sources and discern fact from fiction. He posed a hypothetical question regarding how his great-grandfather would have perceived the last fifty years, suggesting that Elmer might have found the current media environment perplexing and challenging.
Ultimately, Schmoyer’s reflections serve as a reminder of the importance of understanding one’s heritage while navigating the complexities of modern life. He challenges readers to consider how personal and historical narratives shape perceptions of change over time.
As a retired history teacher from the Northwestern Lehigh School District, John Schmoyer emphasizes the value of historical context in today’s rapidly changing world. His insights prompt a deeper examination of how the past informs current realities, and the role individuals play in shaping their interpretations of history.
This article reflects the personal views of John Schmoyer and does not necessarily represent the opinions of the publication. Interested readers are encouraged to engage with their own perspectives on history and change.
