Honours 1st Year History Assignment
Topics: 1. Definition of History 2. Periodization of History 3. Historiographical Methods and the Functions of
History
Submitted by: Naimul Hasan Department: History, Jahangirnagar University Date: [Insert Date]
1. Definition of History
Introduction
The word history comes from the Greek word historia, meaning “inquiry” or “knowledge gained through
investigation.” In simple terms, history is the study of past events, human actions, and societal development
over time. History is not just about dates or rulers; it is about understanding how human life, societies, and
civilizations have evolved.
Studying history helps us learn from the past, understand the present, and plan for the future. It connects
different generations and provides knowledge about cultural, social, political, and economic developments.
Meaning and Scope of History
History is the systematic study of human life and experiences over time. It includes the lives of rulers,
ordinary people, social groups, cultures, and civilizations. The scope of history is broad: political, economic,
social, and cultural events are all part of historical study.
History allows us to understand human progress, struggles, and achievements. For example, learning about
the Industrial Revolution shows how technological advancements changed societies, while studying social
reforms highlights the fight for justice and equality.
E.H. Carr’s View
In What is History? (1961), E.H. Carr defined history as “a continuous process of interaction between the
historian and his facts—an unending dialogue between the present and the past.” According to Carr, history
is not just a collection of facts; it is the interpretation of those facts. Facts alone do not explain why events
happened; historians select and analyze them to provide meaning.
Carr also emphasized that historians are influenced by their own society and time. History is therefore both
objective and subjective, as it is based on evidence but shaped by interpretation.
John Tosh’s View
John Tosh, in The Pursuit of History (1984), described history as a “dialogue between the present and the
past.” He emphasized that history is a process of learning: it is about understanding how past experiences
shape the present.
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Tosh argued that historical study is not memorizing facts but critical inquiry. Historians must collect
evidence, examine sources, and interpret them logically to build meaningful explanations. History, for Tosh,
helps develop judgment, awareness, and critical thinking.
Importance of Studying History
1. Understand past societies, decisions, and cultures.
2. Learn lessons from successes and failures.
3. Build identity, cultural awareness, and citizenship.
4. Develop reasoning, analytical skills, and critical thinking.
5. Connect past events with present-day life.
Conclusion
History is the study of human experiences through time. According to E.H. Carr, it is a dialogue between
past and present, while John Tosh highlights careful investigation and interpretation. History helps us
understand human life, society, and civilization, making it an essential subject for knowledge and wisdom.
2. Periodization of History
Introduction
Periodization is the division of history into different time periods to make its study systematic and
understandable. Human history is long and complex, and dividing it into periods allows historians to
organize events, identify changes, and understand development over time.
Meaning of Periodization
Periodization means dividing history into meaningful segments or ages based on political, social, cultural,
or economic changes. Each period has distinctive features that differentiate it from others.
For example, history is often divided into Ancient, Medieval, and Modern periods. These divisions are not
rigid and may vary depending on region or focus of study.
E.H. Carr explained that periodization helps historians identify patterns and relationships between events.
John Tosh added that it provides a structure to study causes, consequences, and developments.
Purpose of Periodization
1. Identify and understand changes in society.
2. Compare societies and civilizations across time.
3. Observe human progress and development in various fields.
4. Organize historical knowledge into manageable parts.
5. Connect past events to contemporary issues.
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Common Types of Periodization
1. Traditional Periodization: Ancient, Medieval, Modern.
2. Economic or Technological Periodization: Stone Age, Bronze Age, Iron Age, Industrial Age.
3. National Periodization: Based on key events in a country’s history.
4. Thematic Periodization: Based on themes like wars, revolutions, or cultural movements.
Criticism of Periodization
• Can be artificial, as changes in society often happen gradually.
• May reflect a Eurocentric viewpoint or modern bias.
• Historians must use periodization carefully to avoid oversimplification.
Conclusion
Periodization is a useful tool for understanding human history. It organizes the past into clear sections,
helping historians study change, continuity, and progress. Both Carr and Tosh agree that history is
continuous, but periodization provides structure and clarity.
3. Historiographical Methods and the Functions of History
Introduction
Historiography is the study of how history is written. It focuses on the methods historians use to collect,
evaluate, and present historical facts. Studying historiography helps us understand that history is a
systematic and analytical study, not just stories or myths.
Both E.H. Carr and John Tosh emphasize that historical writing is a dialogue between past events and the
historian’s understanding in the present. They agree that history is a combination of facts, interpretation,
and explanation.
Historiographical Methods
Historians follow these key steps:
1. Collection of Sources: Primary sources include letters, diaries, official records, and inscriptions.
Secondary sources include other historians’ writings.
2. Critical Evaluation of Sources: Historians check reliability and bias: Who wrote it? Why? Is it accurate?
3. Interpretation of Facts: Facts must be analyzed to explain causes, effects, and connections.
4. Presentation of History: Facts and interpretations are organized into a coherent narrative for clarity and
meaning.
• Carr emphasized that historians select and interpret facts rather than just record them.
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• Tosh stressed that historical writing requires research, evidence, and critical thinking.
These methods ensure that history is systematic, logical, and reliable.
Functions of History
1. Understanding the Past: Learn about societies, decisions, and cultures.
2. Learning from Experience: Avoid repeating mistakes; understand successes.
3. Building Identity and Citizenship: Connect to culture, heritage, and nation.
4. Developing Critical Thinking: Analyze evidence and form logical conclusions.
5. Connecting Past and Present: Understand how past events influence modern life.
Conclusion
Historiography and historical methods are essential for understanding human civilization. History is a
systematic process of inquiry, interpretation, and explanation. Its functions include understanding the past,
learning lessons, building identity, developing thinking, and connecting past to present. Carr and Tosh
agree that history is a dialogue between past and present, making it a meaningful and valuable discipline.
References
1. Carr, E. H. (1961). What is History? London: Macmillan.
2. Tosh, John. (1984). The Pursuit of History. London: Longman.
