Why Study History?

The study of history is a window into the past that provides understanding of the present-day, and how individuals, nations, and the global community might develop in the future.  Historical study instructs how societies came to be and examines cultural, political, social, and economic influences across time and space.  It also builds the personal understanding of how we as individuals are the sum of a vast range of past experience and actors ourselves in the process of historical change.  In short, the study of the past helps lead to greater personal insight and comprehension of each person’s place in the grand sweep of the human story.  

The study of history helps instruct one in skills that have universal application, no matter what one’s life work might become.  Students of history learn good habits of thought.  They analyze ideas and data, and develop original interpretations of such materials.  They are also schooled in expressing themselves well, both verbally and in writing, essential skills whether one becomes a teacher, doctor, lawyer, businessperson, consultant, nurse—or whatever calling one may choose.