Meaning and Relevance of History

A set of flashcards covering the introductory concepts of history, including definitions, source types, and historical criticism methods based on Chapter 1 of Readings in Philippine History.

What is the etymology of the word 'history'?

It is derived from the Greek word 'historia', which means 'learning, knowledge acquired through inquiry or investigation'.

How did Aristotle define history?

As a systematic account of a set of natural phenomena, whether or not a chronological factor is present in the account.

Who is known as the 'Father of History'?

Herodotus

Which book by Louis Gottschalk defines history as 'the past of mankind'?

Understanding History: A Primer of Historical Method

For what specific work is Herodotus most famous?

A work called 'Histories', which is a lengthy account of the Greco-Persian Wars.

In what way is history considered a science?

It is a discipline grounded in scientific inquiry, marked by methodical investigation, rigorous analysis, and empirical pursuit of truth through the systematic examination of past human experiences.

What are the six reasons to study history provided in the notes?

1. To Understand the Past; 2. To Understand the Present; 3. To Learn from Mistakes and Successes; 4. To Develop Critical Thinking; 5. To Build Identity and Citizenship; 6. To Inspire and Empower.

What is a 'source' in historical study?

Any material that provides information or evidence about the past used to study, interpret, and understand historical events, people, and cultures.

What characterizes a primary source?

It is an original, firsthand account of an event created by someone who witnessed or experienced it, often regarded as the source of the 'best evidence'.

What is a secondary source?

Works that analyze, interpret, or summarize information from primary sources, created by persons who were not direct observers or participants of the event.

What are 'repositories' of primary sources?

Places or institutions where primary sources are stored, preserved, and accessed for study and research, such as libraries, archives, museums, and churches.

What is the difference between Oral Histories and Written Documents as primary sources?

Written Documents are firsthand accounts like diaries and letters, while Oral Histories are verbal accounts such as recorded interviews and testimonies.

Give an example of an autobiography used as a primary source in Philippine history.

Jose Rizal’s 'Memoirs'.

What are three examples of Secondary Sources?

History books (textbooks), biographies written by modern historians, and scholarly journal articles.

What is Historical Criticism?

A method used by historians to evaluate and analyze sources, especially written documents, to determine their authenticity, accuracy, reliability, and meaning.

What is the main focus of External Criticism?

The physical features of the document or artifact to determine its authenticity (whether it is real or fake).

What is the main focus of Internal Criticism?

The content of the source to judge its trustworthiness, accuracy, and identify possible bias.

What are the 'Tests Applied' in External Criticism?

Date, authorship, materials (ink, paper), and signature.

What are the techniques used in Internal Criticism?

Evaluating the author’s bias, logic, consistency, and intention.

What is the outcome of a successful Internal Criticism?

It confirms the source is reliable and useful for historical analysis.