History: How We Understand the Past

What is history?

History is the study of past people and events, built from evidence and shaped by interpretation. It looks beyond dates to ask why things happened, how different choices affected outcomes, and what it meant for people at the time.

The sources historians use

Historians rely on primary sources such as letters, official records, journal entries, artifacts, and maps, as well as secondary sources like histories written by others. They compare sources, check context, and consider who created them and why.

Methods and interpretations

Historical thinking involves asking questions, identifying bias, and testing ideas against evidence. Historiography tracks how interpretations change as new sources emerge or as perspectives shift.

Big eras and turning points

Ancient world

Civilizations, empires, and innovations shape long timelines—often with interconnections across regions.

Medieval era

Local communities, religious institutions, trade networks, and cultural exchanges created a diverse medieval world.

Modern era

Industrialization, nation-states, and globalization transformed economies, politics, and daily life.

Interpreting change: continuity and change

History looks at both change and persistence, noting which practices endure and why some patterns repeat or evolve.

History in everyday life

Why it matters

Historical thinking helps us evaluate evidence, understand different viewpoints, and better participate in public debates. It reminds us that many present-day choices have long roots.