I was reading some quotes from one of his former students "he didn't even use the standard American history textbook because he said that it was corrupt. It was created by rich American businessmen who didn't want to teach the real American history..." because they were interested in still having slaves and oppressing women." Now I dont know if this is true, maybe just a ex-student looking for some revenge, but if it is true, then certainly not the type I would want teaching my kid.
And to Answer SS's question, I dont believe this would be a national news item, if it was not for his Anti-Bush statements. But as I said before, on a local level, if these comments/statements/teaching style was being practiced by my daughters teachers, I would be asking alot of questions. But that just me, and my opinion.