CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION TO HISTORY
Lesson 1: Meaning and Relevance of History
· Understanding the past is crucial for future progress and development, as it provides valuable insights for informed decisions and wiser planning, fostering a continuous and cumulative approach to development. (Based on the quote)
Ø DEFINING HISTORY
· Candelaria et al. (2018):
· Historia (Greek word): Defined history as "knowledge acquired through inquiry or investigation."
· Meaning: History involves actively seeking out information and understanding through research and analysis.
· Shafer (1980):
· Field of Study: Describes history as a field that has developed a "set of methods and concepts."
· Meaning: History is an academic discipline with its own tools, techniques, and ideas for studying the past.
Barraclough (1955):
· Fragmentary Evidence: Emphasizes history as the "attempt to discover, on the basis of fragmentary evidence, the significant things about us."
· Meaning: History involves piecing together incomplete evidence to make sense of important aspects of human existence.
· Zeus Salazar (Filipino Historian):
· Salaysay na may Saysay: Refers to history as narratives or "salaysay" that have meaning or "saysay," which include:
§ Kwento (Story)
§ Katuturan at Kahalagahan (Meaning and Importance)
· History consists of stories that are significant and meaningful, contributing to understanding and importance.
· Ocampo: Adds that these narratives can be written, visual, or oral.
HISTORIANS. Conduct research and provide insights.
HISTORY TEACHERS. Share their knowledge or ideas to shape student's understanding
THEORIES OF HISTORY:
Great God Theory: The creation myths - Divine forces shape history.
Great Man Theory: Dominant personalities - Exceptional (powerful) individuals determine history.
Great Mind Theory: Ideas drive history forward.
Best People Theory: A select group, like the elite or ruling class, makes history.
Human Nature Theory: History is shaped by the qualities of human nature, both good and bad. (People's actions, whether good or bad, influence what happens in history.)
Everyman View: History is the collective experience of ordinary people. (History isn't just about kings and queens; it's also about the lives of everyday people.)
Cyclical View: History repeats itself in cycles, with events following a pattern of rise, peak, and decline. Starting point, a climax, downfall. (History repeats itself, like a wheel turning. Things happen, then they happen again.)
