Learn Basics of History
History Topics
FAQs on History
1. What is the academic definition of History as a subject?
History is the systematic study and interpretation of the past. It involves investigating, analysing, and explaining past events to understand human societies and their development over time. It is not just a collection of stories but a critical discipline that uses evidence from sources like documents, artefacts, and oral traditions to construct narratives about what happened and why.
2. Why is studying History important for a student's education according to the CBSE curriculum?
Studying History is crucial as it helps students develop a deep understanding of how the world has evolved. It explains the origins of current societies, cultures, and political systems. Moreover, it enhances critical thinking skills by teaching students how to analyse evidence, evaluate different perspectives, and construct logical arguments. This knowledge is fundamental for understanding current events and becoming an informed citizen for the 2025-26 session.
3. What are the main periods of History covered in the NCERT syllabus?
The NCERT History syllabus for classes 6 to 12 is generally structured into three main periods, providing a comprehensive timeline:
- Ancient History: Covers early human societies, the Indus Valley Civilization, the Vedic period, and the rise of empires like the Mauryan and Gupta.
- Medieval History: Focuses on the Delhi Sultanate, the Mughal Empire, regional kingdoms, and the socio-cultural developments during this era.
- Modern History: Details the arrival of European powers, the establishment of British rule, the Indian freedom struggle, and the post-independence era.
4. What are the primary sources historians use to study and reconstruct the past?
Historians rely on primary sources, which are original materials from the time period being studied and provide direct evidence. Key examples include:
- Written documents like letters, official records, laws, and newspapers.
- Archaeological artefacts such as pottery, tools, coins, and building ruins.
- Artistic works, including paintings, sculptures, and architecture.
- Oral traditions, interviews, and memoirs.
5. Is History just about memorising dates and famous personalities?
No, this is a common misconception. While knowing key dates and figures provides context, the primary focus of studying History is understanding cause and effect, identifying patterns of change, and analysing the motivations behind historical events. The goal is to develop an interpretive framework for why things happened, not just to memorise a list of facts.
6. What is the difference between 'history' and 'the past'?
'The past' refers to everything that has ever happened—a complete and vast collection of all events and moments. In contrast, 'history' is our interpretation and reconstruction of the past based on the limited available evidence. History is a selective narrative written by historians who decide which events and sources are significant enough to study and explain.
7. How does understanding the history of India's freedom struggle remain relevant for students today?
The history of India's freedom struggle is highly relevant as it explains the foundational principles of the Indian Constitution, such as democracy, secularism, and social justice. Understanding the sacrifices made and the diverse ideologies involved helps students appreciate the value of their rights and freedoms. It also provides critical context for contemporary political and social debates and fosters a sense of national identity.
