How Historical Non Fiction Books Teach People In The Present Day

By Paula Barron


The best indicator of future behavior is past behavior. History tells readers what is likely to happen in the future if similar decisions are made. There are many who love reading history for its own sake, and are enthusiastic about the imaginative power of true stories. Others approach nonfiction for what it can teach, and where history is concerned, there are many things to learn from historical non fiction books that are relevant to today's choices and concerns.

Past behaviors and circumstances tell modern day people the reasons why they do what they do today. There are far more pragmatic advantages to gain from history: on a personal level, information about the past actions of others can help people to live more successfully in their everyday lives. People who learn from the mistakes of the past are better able to respond more healthily in the same situations.

The past indicates the type of choices that have benefits and the type that harm. This is why history is often used to support opinions about the present day. Such open debate is valuable for learning, and helps mankind to find the healthiest ways to live.

History has value to people on a personal level. It can be a useful aid in overcoming biased views. Learning how bias has destroyed countries politically and economically shows people the harm that can be done through personal bigotry. History reveals the true impacts of unhealthy thinking, revealing the full consequences of unrealistic beliefs. It demonstrates the very real consequences of past actions.

History has a tendency to repeat itself, but this can only happen if the lessons it had to teach have not been learned. When nations learn from past mistakes, they are less likely to repeat faulty behaviors. It is not, after all, history itself that is causing repeated actions. It is the people involved who are responsible for the decisions they make.

Those who have learned from history are more capable of behaving in healthier ways. Despite the fact that lessons from the past exist, humankind continues to repeat the same mistakes. This is not the fault of history itself but the individuals who make it happen.

Modern day schooling lacks in many ways in terms of the way history is taught in classrooms. It is taught without human perspectives and concrete events, which makes it difficult for students to relate to and benefit from it on a practical level. History is seldom taught in relation to the wisdom that has been gained from it, which makes it less compelling. Academic views of the past have little to offer.

Those who focus on writing historic accounts often delve into the human experience of events. They also talk about the wisdom that can be gained from those occasions. When stories are told in a way people can relate to, readers can experience them imaginatively. Such intimate experiences are better able to influence healthier behaviors.

Many of today's historians confront their role in a dispassionate way, but there are many authors who offer a more intimate experience in historical non fiction books. They tell not only of the leaders of society but the experiences of the common people. This gives readers something to relate to.




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