Introduction to History: Definition and Historiography

Vocabulary flashcards covering fundamental definitions, key figures, etymology, and methodology from the introductory lecture on history and historiography.

History

The systematic account of past human activities—including events, decisions, and experiences—constructed through the careful examination of evidence, documents, artifacts, and records.

Historia (ሱστορία)

An ancient Greek word meaning knowledge acquired through inquiry or investigation, which served as the root for the modern term history.

Historein

The ancient Greek verb meaning 'to inquire' or 'to seek to know.'

Herodotus of Halicarnassus

A Greek historian (c. 484–425 BC) regarded as the 'Father of History' who authored 'Histories' using a narrative and investigative method combining inquiry, travel, and oral testimony.

Cicero

The Roman orator who first bestowed the title 'Father of History' upon Herodotus.

Thucydides

An Athenian historian and general (c. 460–400 BCE) known as the 'Father of Scientific History' and author of 'History of the Peloponnesian War,' who emphasized rigorous evidence, eyewitness accounts, and rational, human causes.

Historiography

The study of history itself and how historical texts are written, examining author background, publication context, and sources used.

Positivism in History

A historical approach asserting that real knowledge lies in the actual observation of facts and must be verified through sensory experience.

Primary Sources

Historical evidence produced at the time of the event or subject, such as archival documents, artifacts, memorabilia, letters, census records, government documents, and firsthand accounts.

Secondary Sources

Works created by authors using primary sources, including books, journal articles, essays, documentaries, and scholarly analyses.

R.G. Collingwood

The figure who stated, 'To know yourself, you must know what humanity has done.'