Final answer:
Howard Zinn challenges the excuse of progress in the annihilation of races and critiques the traditional Western-centric historical narrative.
Step-by-step explanation:
Howard Zinn, in Chapter One, does not argue that myths are accurate representations of history. Instead, he challenges the traditional narratives that often serve to justify acts of colonization and oppression. Specifically, Howard Zinn questions the excuse of progress in the annihilation of races and critiques the perspective that history is a straightforward path of advancement led by Western civilization. He would argue against the idea that progress justifies the horrific historical acts committed against entire races. Zinn emphasizes the need to understand and acknowledge different perspectives, especially those of the colonized and oppressed, in the telling of history.