Importance of History

This is a few thoughts that I had during my Cultural Concepts class. We were discussing the role history plays in our lives and how it helps us to understand the present as well the future. If we understand what history has to say, we can come to an understanding about the problems we face today. If we refuse to discover our history, we will find ourselves fabricating a past that cannot help our understandings of the world. People tend to underestimate the power of history, it teaches us values—it is the basis on which civilization evolves. History allows people to benefit from previous experiences and advance in life. Learning from mistakes, history defines society and outlines cultures.

People, who know their history, know their future. History matters and should be reexamined because he who controls the past controls the future. Our view of history shapes the way we view the present, and therefore it dictates what answers we offer for existing problems. A better society can develop by people being aware of their past, but not being afraid to let certain things go. History should not be regretted, it should make a society stronger and wiser. Through the mistakes and down sides of history, we can prevail and make a better world. History should not control our actions, only explain them and give light to why we are the way we are. The media needs to influence this in people, by it displaying the positive effects history has on society, people will understand and welcome the idea of learning their history.