Introduction to History and Inquiry

Study Notes

Derived from the Greek word "Historia," meaning learning by inquiry.
Aristotle viewed history as systematic accounting of natural phenomena, emphasizing chronological arrangement.
History usually refers to an account of human affairs in chronological order.

Factual History: Provides basic information about events (what), timing (when), location (where), and people involved (who).
Speculative History: Explores reasons (why) and methods (how) of events, speculating on causes and effects.

Term "kasaysayan" combines "salaysay" (narrative/story) and "saysay" (meaning).
Definition of kasaysayan includes narratives about past events significant to a particular group in a specific context.
Both components of narrative and meaning are essential for authentic historical accounts.

Ambeth Ocampo: Proposes kasaysayan as a narrative that carries meaning for a group, highlighting the importance of context.
Zeus Salazar: Defines kasaysayan as a meaningful narrative about the past for specific groups, emphasizing the theoretical framework of "pantayong pananaw," which adds depth to the definition of history.
Teodoro Agoncillo: Describes history as the study of relevant past, focusing on the Filipino people's struggle for freedom.
Renato Constantino: Defines history as the record of the inarticulate, critiquing traditional narratives for being shaped by the elite's perspective.

Different sources are necessary for thorough historical research, including written and oral sources.
Historians must determine which sources provide accurate details about historical events.
Non-book materials, such as archaeological, epigraphical, and numismatical evidence, may be essential.
Visits to museums, archives, courthouses, and libraries are vital for gathering historical data.
Research may require accessing private collections, such as business records, autograph collections, or parish church records.

Historians should have a clear subject and delimitation regarding persons, areas, times, and functions.
Identifying relevant materials that connect to the subject enhances research quality.