The dreaded question every historian gets asked at Thanksgiving dinner by a disapproving relative. Most hear the term and think “history is the study of the past,” and although there is some truth to that statement, it is entirely misleading. Does a historian concern themselves with the formation of the moon? Well by our previous definition of history, they surely must. Sadly; however, I cannot tell you much about the formation of the moon, and I would reckon many historians would be in the same boat. So what separates history from just being a study of the past? It’s the human element. History, according to History Jesus (Mark Bloch), is the study of men in time.
“Well that’s cool and all, but what use is it?”
This follow-up question can be the Achilles heel of many young historians, and was mine, until I read The Historian’s Craft, by Bloch. To put it simply, the value of history is whatever the reader ascribes it to be. History can be a useful way of understanding the present through the lens of the past, and to me, that is where I place much of it’s value. However, to some, the value of history is entirely in entertainment, which is totally fine (plus who doesn’t find history to be fun??). Finally, Bloch argues that humans are historical beings, meaning they live through the stories and narratives of the past, and that by understanding history, humans can better understand themselves. Whether you enjoy history to understand the present, for fun, or to explore your identity, the subject of history has fascinated humans for thousands of years.
Although I am admittedly an amateur historian for the time being, I hope to share my passion for the subject with all of you. This blog will primarily be an exploration of history in the United States, and the travels of me and my partner, Daisy. However, don’t be surprised to see travel commentary, art, or food reviews either, as I’m certain Daisy will have plenty to say on those topics. I sincerely hope you enjoy this blog as much as Daisy and I do.
– Jack