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Our initial connection to history
is sparked by reading an exciting book, hearing
an inspiring teacher, watching a gripping documentary, or
walking a Civil War battlefield. As our curiosity leads us to
analyze the past in greater depth, we discover that history is
important in a more profound sense.
History is essential to both
individuals and society. History provides our best source of
information about how people and societies behave. This information
is critical to understand and evaluate the forces that have
conditioned the human experience, including forms of government,
social policy, economic structures, scientific and technological
innovation, cultural values, family organization and theories about
human behavior. History also examines the response of individuals
and groups as they seek to direct, control or resist these forces
through, for example, political campaigns, public discussions,
strikes, wars of independence, and artistic movements. The study of
history is also important because it helps us to understand change
and, in particular, the evolution of our own
society.
The study of history develops
critical habits and skills and provides a base of knowledge about
past societies. Students learn to analyze how and why human values,
ideas and actions change through time, evaluate conflicting
interpretations of events, and communicate their ideas effectively.
These skills provide life-long benefits. Students use their
knowledge of history and their skills of analysis and interpretation
to develop a sense of historical perspective, assess current events
and contemporary debates, and become thoughtful and informed
citizens.
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