Why Study History? by Peter Stearns Article Analysis (Essay Sample)

History, the study of the past. From an early age, one is taught history. Whether that’s history about one's heritage, one's country or the world. Though when studying history, one may question why. History is the past, what could be so important about understanding something that has already happened? Peter Stearns article, Why Study History? focuses on just that. Stearn brings forth many varied reasons why one should study history. Such claims include how history is beneficial for moral understanding, society, good citizenship, recognizing one's identity, the use of history in the real world, and the benefits of history and comprehension as a student. Stearns argument is accurate and I do agree with his claims. 

Many may not believe it, but history is beneficial to understanding people and society. Interpreting human behavior to understand how society works and has changed. The influence of war on the populace or the influence of technological innovations. Multiple examples can be put forth to show this. The impacts of World War one truly shows how World War two occurred. Further, the effects of World War one were such that Germany was blamed for everything that had happened. Germany was left in ruins and debt. The German populace had no hope for their country or their leaders. The sense of nationalism in Germany was gone. This helped bring the fascist leader Hitler into power. Hitler made promises for a better Germany with a united populace. This is what drew the German people towards Hitler and gave him power. If one had not known of the complicated history faced by Germany post the first world war, the rise of Hitler and his Nazi party would seem bizarre. History’s interpretation of people and society truly shows why people behave the way they do.  

Moreover, history is also beneficial because it provides identity. Identity is something many strive to understand through their life. Identity is understanding one's origin, religion, culture, and nationality among many other things. Stearn states, “Historical data include evidence about how families, groups, institutions, and whole countries were formed...provides facts about genealogy and a basis for understanding how the family has interacted...” History helps recognize identity which brings a sense of community. This is nationalism. Nationalism in terms of history is not just pride for one’s country but also forming loyalty for one's nation through common background of culture which brings people together. Nationalism became the root for many countries. Nationalism helped countries such as France gain independence. During the French revolution, nationalist ideals with the famous slogan, “Liberty, Equality, Fraternity” was the basis of the revolution. This common excitement coupled with enthusiasm for one's country is what helped the French people during the revolution. Identity is important in understanding who you are as a person, the only way to do so is through gaining knowledge. 

Lastly, history helps provide moral understanding. An individual who studies history is able to develop morals through the past. Others past experiences can help to solve dilemmas in the present. As the phrase goes, “History teaching by example”, learning from past mistakes and experiences so one does not repeat them. Many times, history can provide inspiration as well. Tolerance is a moral virtue many individuals strive to achieve. After the Protest Reformation, a clash between the Catholics and Protestants led to conflicts all over Europe. Such conflicts led to bloodshed and wars. These wars were crucial and disastrous unlike what Europe had seen before. Though these conflicts were resolved by the Peace of Westphalia in 1648 since then, there has never been a religious war in Europe. Through understanding the wars of religion, one is better able to have religious tolerance. Realizing the chaos which erupted in Europe post Protestant Reformation, one would be less likely to cause war over religion again. History presents us with different learning opportunities and examples.  

Therefore, as per Stearn’s argument, one can see how beneficial studying history is. From understanding the world and others to gaining understanding oneself, history provides us with many lessons to learn. One may not have any experiences in life yet taking the opportunity to gain other’s opportunities can be just as beneficial. History is not only valuable, understanding it is yet through the use of historical documents and texts one is able to obtain a broader perspective and important skills to become an ideal student. So, the next time you enter a history class or open a history textbook, think back to Stearn’s reasoning. Utilize history for your own benefit.