Well I think that is an issue with the education system and the media in America. From what I've heard the American education system teaches little about other countries until one is almost done of their K12 education. And even then, little is discussed.
And right now comparing American and Canadian newspapers, you'll find that American newspapers are more often than not concerned with the latest american government gaffe, and less about the international scene. Whereas the front page of a Canadian newspaper will often reference the latest international news.