History is usually defined as “what-really-happened-in-the-past.” Professional historians, however, know that history is more complicated than that. They study evidence from a wide range of sources, including documents or recollections from the past, material artifacts, and previous scholarship (secondary sources). They weigh all of these, working toward careful, provisional interpretations of the past. This process teaches the historian to consider multiple perspectives and to assess the strengths and weaknesses of each source; it encourages him or her to find patterns, controversies, and conflicts in available information. History also teaches students to consider cause and effect in different time periods, as well as to see how one event can influence the outcomes of others.
Despite its challenges, history serves some important functions, many of which are harder to articulate than those of engineering or medicine. Most importantly, it nurtures identity, allowing individuals to discover their place in the story of humanity. Moreover, history can give people the skills they need to survive in an intercultural world.
It teaches the importance of tolerance and understanding other cultures. It teaches how all human activities are interrelated, even the seemingly unrelated ones like religion, economics, and literature. By placing all of these things in their proper context, history allows a student to appreciate them more fully.
Because it provides a framework for the present, history helps us understand why we are where we are today and how we got here. It also gives perspective on current issues, so that we can make informed decisions about the future. The discipline has a very real place in the lives of every person, no matter what their interests are or what kind of career they plan to pursue.
As a result, it is a subject that all modern nations value, and that they encourage in some way. It is important to remember, though, that history is a powerful tool that can be used in ways that can damage its utility. Historians, and students of history, should not be marshalled as weapons in culture wars or used to promote a narrow ideological agenda. The misuse of history leads to skewed, one-dimensional understandings of the past and erodes its utility.
If you are interested in learning more about the discipline of history and how it can shape your own future, then a University of the People degree might be right for you. We offer a wide range of programs, from the more traditional and rigorous offerings of Princeton University to more flexible online degrees at our tuition-free U.S. accredited online university. Check out our programs and apply now! We look forward to welcoming you to the University of the People family. And don’t forget to share this article with your friends and family!