> If you want to learn from a book, you have to play a more active role.

I have a mind-blowing insight for you. African tribes have figured this out. The way they teach history is by re-enacting events from myth and history. Those "silly" and noisy dances make a lot of sense.

As Confucius said,

I hear and I forget.

I see and I remember.

I do and I understand.

Participation in a tribal ceremony has the potential to teach history best - with highest chance of remembering.