Historical things

Actually in Asia, the school teach people to memorize many data in historical things, but they don't teach you to think.
So the first time I heard that the history of art or the history of classical music for Western students, I felt so fresh. In Asia, those just for the students who major in art or music to test. Most need to memorize the nation history from the primitive times. Perhaps you also need to remorize the location and the time of the legendary civilization. In this way, the people of the country would be proud of their country.
I don't know whether my explaination is clear or not. Therefore I want to take some examples to show you know.
I. Asian history view
1. When occured the opium wars? And when ended the opium wars?
Answer: 1840 AD, 1842 AD(Sometimes you should remeber the date, such like August 29th)
2. What is the treaty ended the Opium War?
Answer: The Treaty of Nanking (Nanjing)
3. How much the indemnities Qing need to pay for Britain?
Answer: 21 million Mexican silver dollars.

II. International history part ( I personally think the position and views lean towards the United States)
1. When ended the World War II?
Answer: 1945 AD
2. What happened and made the United States joined the Allies in World War II? When happened it?
Answer: The attack on Pearl Harbor, December 7th 1941.

Besides that, the value of America has become a universal value. The impression of technology, economy and the freedom.

As for me, I am glad that I did the poor result on history examinations. And now I would like to spend more time to think about why, not just memorize a lot of data. Anyway, I think it is interesting to understand the history if I don't need to take the exams.