History's connection
Although History is a window through which we can peer into the past, its present and future connections cannot be ignored. That may be hard to believe of something that is generally regarded as tedious and monotonous, but it’s true, and we’ll presently see why.
Merely uttering the word ‘history’ draws yawns all around, and within seconds, a sense of ennui and apathy engulfs us. Who wants to learn dry and boring stuff filled with dates and facts? Who wants to be inundated with loads of apparently ‘useless information’ that fails to establish a sense of connection? Not many takers for that, I can assure you!!!
And yet, historians are regarded as ‘men of learning’, and veritable scholars. They are considered authorities in studying and writing about the past.
The Beginning
Let’s go back in time to the misty morning of History when it emerged from the fog and became a credible fountain of knowledge, that hinted at new beginnings. Let’s raise a toast to Herodotus, a Greek historian and the acknowledged ‘father of History’. He was the first person to ever document events of the past coherently and give real meaning to history.
Unlike his predecessors, Herodotus adopted a critical and rational approach while collecting facts and evaluating them. His scientific approach gave ‘history’ an air of credibility. No wonder then that he was regarded as a ‘pioneer in history’.
History- a treasure house
Whoa there! Don’t think of history to be merely a warehouse for housing past events. Nor is it merely a rearview mirror that reflects the past. It is much more than that. It’s also a sketchbook of vivid characters, who directly or indirectly play a role in shaping and guiding the destiny of mankind. It is a jigsaw puzzle of hows, whys, and ifs, which, when juxtaposed correctly, pave the way for the heralding of new beginnings.
Thus, though history allows you to peep into the past, its window acts as a medium through which you can establish a past, present, and future connection. And that’s not all.
History Inspires & Motivates
History has been known to motivate people and inspire them to reach new heights. Who hasn’t heard of the ‘Warrior Queen’, the immensely courageous and patriotic Rani Lakshmibai of Jhansi, with exceptional leadership skills? Hers is an iconic story that will forever motivate and inspire the warriors of not only today but of any time.
This sculpture is made of waste material. (Courtesy: Wikipedia)
Swami Vivekananda, the mystic philosopher, showcased India’s rich cultural heritage to the world. His message to the youth, his faith in humankind, empathy, and compassion sent a sterling message across. He is indeed a living page and a source of inspiration to thousands all over the world.
Gaining insight into the past of these vivid characters has altered the way we think and act. It has fostered critical thinking, inspired intellectual growth, and encouraged us to become better human beings. Would this have been possible had history not recorded past events?
History’s Diversity
Wars, natural disasters, and pandemics have plagued the world ever since its inception. The startling lessons that we have learned have helped us cope better when the need arose. The way we tackled COVID-19, the way we handle conflicts today, are based on what we learned from experience.
Whether it’s astronomy or space, science or technology, the stamp of human achievement is indelible and remarkable. Past and present discoveries have triggered mankind to achieve what has not been done before.
It has kindled the imagination and passion in many budding scientists and explorers to uncover lost civilizations, scour the heavens for new comets or planets, and undertake journeys in an effort to go where no man has ever gone before.
In this context, the quest to travel to the moon and other planets, the ongoing search for the ninth planet, and black holes are befitting examples of how history has set the trend to delve deeper into the secrets of the universe.
By placing these gripping tales within the ambit of human civilization, history, which affords a peek into the past, has created a niche for itself in the archives of learning by offering newer insights and newer interpretations.
History’s Invisible Impact
The impact that history has on your life may not be immediate or visible. However, no doubt studying history is making it easier for human beings to adapt, evolve, and live in a world that’s constantly subject to change. History has helped us to become more informed, more understanding, more accepting, more tolerant, and more accommodating.
Respect History
History is indeed a great teacher! So, the next time you open your ‘history book’, treat it with a little more reverence. Take a peek into the past and let history unfurl itself in the widest manner possible.
Thanks, Mini, for getting me re-oriented… 🙂
I love and respect history!!