WHAT IS HISTORY?

History is the study of the past – specifically, the people, societies, events and problems of the past – and
our attempts to understand them. It is a pursuit common to all human societies.

History can be a tremendous story, a rolling narrative filled with great personalities and tales of turmoil
and triumph. Each passing generation adds its own chapters to our history while reinterpreting and finding
new things in those chapters already written.

History gives us a sense of identity. By understanding where we have come from, we can better
understand who we are.

History provides a sense of context for our lives and our existence. It helps us to understand the way things
are and ways that we might approach the future.

History teaches us what it means to be human, highlighting the great achievements and disastrous errors
of the human race.

History also teaches us through example. It offers hints about how we can organize and manage our
societies for the benefit and betterment of all those who live in them.