English teacher here. American. Lived abroad for over a decade and taught in 5 different countries. Here's the deal, we're all brainwashed. Kids in every country are a product of their culture and the agreed upon narrative of their day. You think Chinese kids aren't brainwashed? Russian kids? Most westerners learn little to nothing about African or South American history. What do you think they learn about us? Hell, Ghadaffi took it to insane levels with his green book. Every country teaches about its own most glorious age. Usually from the most appealing vantage point. And to be honest, why shouldn't they? (Maybe with the exception of Germany.) So yes, we're brainwashed. Isn't it lovely you had the opportunity to find out? Most people never know.