“We can learn from history how past generations thought and acted, how they responded to the demands of their time and how they solved their problems. We can learn by analogy, not by example, for our circumstances will always be different than theirs were. The main thing history can teach us is that human actions have consequences and that certain choices, once made, cannot be undone. They foreclose the possibility of making other choices and thus they determine future events.” Gerda Lerner

WHAT IS HISTORY? Factors that influence history:

Place

Time

Events/Crisis

People

Culture

Past Experiences

Factors that influence history: Place/location Time Events/crises People Culture Past experiences

“History is a guide to navigation in perilous times “History is a guide to navigation in perilous times. History is who we are and why we are the way we are.” David McCullough Think about this quote – in your notes, write down what it means to you. Take 1 minute to share with a classmate.

“There is properly no history; only biography.” Ralph Waldo Emerson What does Emerson mean by this quote? Standing meeting.

“Those who cannot learn from history are doomed to repeat it.” George Santayana

Personal Histories Complete this assignment with your shoulder partner. You need a sheet of paper and a writing utensil. Write down the information you learn about your partner. You must ask at least five questions. The first three are required. The next few questions are just suggestions, but you can come up with your own if you like. What is your name? Where were you born? If you weren’t born in Dallas, when did you get here? Do you play any sports or have a job? Tell me about your family. What’s the most interesting place you’ve ever been? etc. etc. etc.

Homework Take the information you have learned about your partner and write a paragraph. Paragraphs must be at least 5 sentences long. You will have to stand in class tomorrow and introduce your partner.