MODULE #1: RIZAL’S LIFE AND EDUCATION

LESSON #1: Introduction to the Study of History

OJECTIVES: At the end of this lesson, you will be
able to:
 Define and know the scope of history;
 Identify the sources and dimensions of history in general; and
 Discuss the concept of historical documentation and historical
imagination.

INTRODUCTION
Welcome to the “New Normal” form in teaching and learning process. In this lesson, you will
be introduced to the scope of history, its sources, historical documentation, methodology,
various dimensions, and its relevance. This will only take up few minutes of your time.
Hereafter is an activity that will tickle your mind about you and your role in history.

ACTIVITY
Direction: Select at least two (2) old items that can be found inside your house (the oldest
issue) and take a “selfie” with it. Kindly attach the photos of the chosen item in a separate
page/document (1 Photo only per item). Here are some examples of the old items:

1. Old Clock
2. Old Coin or paper money
3. Old jewelry
4. Letter since 5-10 years ago
5. Old calendar

ANALYSIS
Direction: Read and reflect on the quote below. Prepare your thoughts to be utilized later for
the Application towards the end of the module!
 LESSON PROPER
Meaning and Scope of History
The word history comes from the Latin word, “historia” which means an “inquiry” or
“investigation”. Historians tend to study history based on the past where they are looking for
the evidence of an event or even civilization. The study of history became one of the oldest
disciplines in liberal arts. History is defined as “the branch of social science which deals with
the study of the past in relation to the present and the future”. Based on this definition, there
are 3 important elements of history: a.) as branch of social
science, b.) study of the past, c.) relation to the present and future. It is very important to
examine the 3, as stated.
1. Branch of Social Science – Science is defined as “the study of facts based on
observation and experimentation”. Sciences are divided into 3: physical, natural and
social sciences. Our main concern is on social sciences where history belongs.
2. Study of the past – peoples, event, places and even civilizations are one of the main
concerns in the studying history. Therefore, we will study the past, regarding Rizal’s
Life, works and writings that all happened in the 19th century Philippines.
3. Relation to the present and the future – History is the study of the past in relation
to the present and the future. For instance, even if Rizal belonged to the 19 th century,
his life, works and even his thoughts are relevant until today. His first novel, Noli Me
Tangere talks about the “social cancer” like corruption, vices, and wrong beliefs that
are still existing up to this time.

Sources of History:
1. Primary Sources – these are the physical evidence in history such as artifacts, relics,
remains, fossils and even oral tradition.
2. Secondary Sources:
a.) Published Materials – such as newspapers, magazines, journals, encyclopedia,
pamphlets, handouts, books, circulars and other materials which are published
either in hard and soft copies;
b.) Unpublished materials – such as letters, biographies, autobiography, theses and
dissertations and other papers written by a scholar.
Historical Documentation
According to Teodoro Agoncillo (the late nationalist historian), “no documents, no
history…” which had given the “documentary evidences” more weight rather than “sabi-
sabi” or hearsays.
Historical documentation is very important for biography in the sense that the person was
existing during his time. Records like letters, birth and death certificates, voice recordings,
paintings and even court records show the “primary evidence” in writing history.
Historical Methodology
The process of writing historical details is called “historiography.” It narrates history in a
proper way according to the time, space and depth. Writing history depends on the scope of
the writer’s research and his critical analysis in using the available sources and references.
What is “historical imagination”?
The concept of historical imagination is when the reader puts himself in the picture or
writing history using one’s imagination. For example, reading biographies puts you in the
same person in order for that person to come alive. Using historical imagination is also a part
of learning history in which “internal and external criticism” should be applied. Furthermore,
by employing historical imagination, we make the story come alive.
Dimensions of History
1. Place/Geographical Dimension – the location of event(s) is really important. For
example, in the battle of Waterloo which Napoleon fought against the Perussian, he
missed to consider the climate of the country which was winter. Most likely, the
climate was the biggest factor why he lost the historic, Napoleonic War.
2. Time/Chronological Dimension – in history, time element is very important. It is the
barometer of historical events. Dating might be considered as a great factor to
distinguish time such as the period when Rizal was born. Generally speaking, in
history, there are 3 important datings: Ancient, Medieval and the Modern Period. The
Ancient Period is described as the geological time scale up to man’s existence and its
civilization. The Medieval Period or Age of Faith was when man learned how to
value faith and education. The Modern Period is described as the period when man
discovered and learned the essence of technology as well as to harmonize his works
with environment.
Relevance in Studying History
The study of history has a great significance and relevance to the modern era since this is the
foundation of the nation’s national identity. The study of Philippine History gives more
emphasis in how Filipinos fought during those times of struggles such as the Propaganda
Movement (1892 – 1896) which influenced by several “paisanos” in Europe (Rizal, Del Pilar
and Lopez – Jaena).

APPLICATION
Direction: Using your own thought, define Historicism, and how would you relate and
apply it as a good citizen of this country. Write your output in a blank document (any
format will do) together with your Activity output.
Congratulations! You are done with Module 1 Lesson 1! You definitely did well! On to
the next lesson! Keep safe!