Unfortunately, as each generation takes charge, the decisions of what history is to be remembered is in the control of the new power group.
Our history should include annual reminders of what we failed at and what we succeeded in.
A sidebar. Look at the holidays we have now, other than those based on religion.. Why isn't there a holiday remembrance for December 7th, 1941 or for September 11th, 2001? If these markers in time would provide one of our political parties votes in an election. you could count them being added to your holiday days off calendar!
Chernobyl is a tragedy that should always remind us that in our moments of great intentions, when we are at our best, everything can still go mightily wrong. On March 11th, 2011, Fukushima reminded us of that again.