Nature and Uses of History

1.1 Nature and Uses of History

• The term "history" is derived from the Greek word historia, which means "learning through enquiry" or "an account of one's inquiries."
• The first writer to systematically investigate and document historical events was the Greek historian Herodotus (c. 484-425 BC).
• Herodotus is regarded as the "Father of History."
• History signifies all usage, that have taken place in the past.
• The distinction is between what actually happened in the past and the facts independently of the historian.
• Historians still apply their expertise to survive records and write history in the form of accounts of the past.
• History can thus be defined as a systematic study and organized knowledge of the past.
• The study involves the discovery, collection, organization, and presentation of information about past events and deeds of human beings in the past, but to find patterns and establish meaning through a rigorous study and interpretation of sources.

1.2 Uses of History

• History helps us understand the present.
• History is the only storehouse of information available for the examination and analysis of how people behaved and acted in the past.
• It helps us to produce an account of their past because it is difficult to understand the problems that face humanity and society today without tracing their origins in the past.

1.2 History Provides a Sense of Identity

• Knowledge of history is indispensable for understanding who we are and where we fit in the world.
• As memory is to the individual, so is history to society.
• An individual without memory finds great difficulty in relating to others and making intelligent decisions.
• A society without history would be in a similar condition.
• History helps to develop tolerance and open-mindedness.

1.2 History Helps Develop Tolerance and Open-Mindedness

• Most of us tend to regard our own cultural practices, styles, and values as the only ones that are right and proper.
• Studying different societies in the past is like going to a foreign country, which contributes to freeing ourselves from some of our inherent cultural provincialism.
• By studying the past, students of history acquire broader perspectives that give them the broad-mindedness and flexibility required in many life situations.