Are we learning history the right way in school? just wondering if you could answer this...?

It sounds like you have learned your history a little bit backwards. I would expect to have to learn your facts first and then learn to apply what you know later. But, that really isn't the point of your question. I suspect that a certain amount of that may have to do with your teacher and some may have to do with what they are expected to teach you. It seems like you take enough interest in history to at least ask this question. Just jump through the hoops for now and I promise that you will enjoy history cles much more when you get to college.