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A Battle for America's Lost History

In our view, this battle is not just some academic fascination with the details of the nation’s history. It is a struggle to regain the knowledge that could guide Americans back toward a renewed age of reason and a revitalized democracy.

Without an informed electorate, there is no hope.

So, we have focused on important chapters of this “lost history,” such as the pattern of Republican dirty politics (from Richard Nixon through the Bushes) – and on decisions by leaders of both parties to rely on propaganda and mythology to sugarcoat some of Washington’s worst offenses.

Today, as the nation rushes toward another important election, we feel that it is of vital importance that the day-to-day media babble about politics be put in some meaningful historical perspective. And we are committed to do that.

But we need your help. Our mid-year fund drive has stalled well short of its minimal goal of $25,000. Please do what you can to put us over the top.

There are four easy ways to support what we do:

First option: You can make a tax-deductible donation  by credit card at the Web site or  by check to Consortium for Independent Journalism (CIJ); 2200 Wilson Blvd.; Suite 102-231; Arlington VA 22201. Or you can use PayPal (our account is named after our e-mail address “consortnew@aol.com”).

With any donation of $50 or more, you can request as a premium gift a copy of one of two documentaries about the historic 1980 election:

A DVD of the PBS “Frontline” documentary “The Election Held Hostage,” co-written by Consortiumnews.com’s editor Robert Parry. It explores whether Republican skullduggery with Iran was a factor in electing Ronald Reagan.

Or, filmmaker William Brandon Shanley’s documentary, “The Made for TV Election,” which examines the role of media manipulation. It is narrated by actor Martin Sheen.

For $100, you can get both. And for $125, we will add the two-DVD set of the closed-door congressional debriefing of Israeli intelligence officer Ari Ben-Menashe, describing his role in these historic events.

Once you make your donation, simply e-mail us your selection at consortnew@aol.com .

If you’d prefer, a book instead of a DVD, you can ask for an autographed copy of one of Robert Parry’s last three books – Lost History, Secrecy & Privilege as a substitute. Just follow up your donation with an e-mail expressing your choice.