I agree, history takes a back seat to math, science and language arts. It's a shame because I have talked to high school kids who don't know what the Bill of Rights is, they don't know the difference between the Revolutionary War and the Civil War. There's barely enough time for American history in public schools, let alone, the histories of other countries or groups, again, it's a shame.
But like tripleblessed said, 'Education is a gift you give yourself...' It's nice to know there are books, resources, even places like this to ask questions.
Good luck to you