What is World History?

The most common definition of history is a record of the past. You may see it as a series of irrelevant records of revolutions and battles or the meaningless stories of kings, queens, and other rulers History is not just what happens to the famous and infamous. It also includes everything that happens to everyone, including you.

Written history began about five to six thousand years ago when people began to write and keep records. To understand and create this record of the past, historians use documents some written and some recorded artifacts such as pottery, tools, and weapons art works- paintings, sculptures, weavings When looking at the past, historians will often organize their material according to themes. The following nine themes are the most used.

Politics & History How were people governed and who held power? What was the relationship between ruler & ruled? What rights & liberties did people have? What actions did people take to change their forms of government? What were the causes & results of conflicts & wars?

The Role of Ideas Ideas have great power to move people to action The spread of ideas from one society to another has played an important part in history.

Economics & History Society’s existence is based on how basic needs are met

The Importance of Cultural Development Beliefs and patterns of behavior that are passed on from one generation to another

Religion In search for a deeper meaning of life, how has religion influenced one’s life and how has it spread?

The Role of Individuals Both famous and everyday figures have shaped history with their decisions, actions and roles- Gandhi, Osama Bin Laden, Queen Elizabeth George Washington, Thomas Jefferson Benjamin Franklin

Science & Technology People around the world have made scientific discoveries and technological innovations that have changed the world.

Environment  How have people and societies affected the physical world we live in?

Social Life Division of social classes in a society or country How people lived, dressed & ate.

Conclusion World History is more than just a series of dramatic events. It is the story of a human community- how people lived on a daily basis, how they shared ideas, how they were ruled and how they fought. It is also the story of dreams fulfilled or unful- filled, personal creativity, and philosophical inspiration. You are who you are because of choices and experiences of your ancestors and parents. You are a link in the chain that stretches backwards and forward.