On History: A Study of Present Tendencies

On History provides an overview of historical thought in the early 20th century, comparing it to political thought and discussing the style and method of history writing. It argues that history provides a principle for summarizing the past and surveying the social process.

Format: Hardback
Length: 100 pages
Publication date: 20 March 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

First published in 1927, On History offers a comprehensive overview of the trends in historical thought during the early twentieth century. Rowse begins by drawing an analogy between historical and political thought, exploring the style and methodology of history writing. He argues that the primary value of the concept of history lies in its ability to provide a principle suitable for the age, summarizing the past and enabling us to survey the entirety of the social process, rather than merely focusing on the surface with occasional excursions into the depths. This book holds immense interest for students and scholars of history.

Introduction:
On History, originally published in 1927, provides a profound exploration of the trends in historical thought during the early twentieth century. Authored by the esteemed historian H.L.A. Hart, this seminal work offers a comprehensive overview of the intellectual currents that shaped historical understanding during this pivotal period.

Analogy between Historical and Political Thought:
Rowse begins his book by establishing an analogy between historical and political thought, highlighting the interconnectedness of these two fields of study. He argues that historical analysis shares many common principles with political analysis, such as the importance of understanding the context, analyzing causes and effects, and evaluating the significance of historical events. This analogy serves as a foundation for Rowse's subsequent discussions on the style and method of history writing.

Style and Method of History Writing:
In Chapter 1, Rowse delves into the style and method of history writing. He emphasizes the importance of clarity, coherence, and objectivity in historical writing, urging historians to present their findings in a straightforward and accessible manner. Rowse also discusses the role of narrative in history writing, arguing that it can be a powerful tool for conveying complex ideas and emotions. He cautions against the overuse of narrative, however, as it can lead to a superficial understanding of the past.

The Chief Value of the Concept of History:
Chapter 2 explores the chief value of the concept of history. Rowse argues that the primary purpose of history is to provide a principle proper to the age for its summary of the past. By understanding the historical context, we can gain a deeper appreciation of the present and the challenges we face today. He also emphasizes the importance of history in shaping our understanding of human nature, society, and culture.

The Social Process and Historical Understanding:
In Chapter 3, Rowse discusses the social process and historical understanding. He argues that history is not merely a record of events but a means of understanding how societies the past has shaped the present. He emphasizes the importance of studying the social, economic, and political factors that have influenced historical events and their impact on society. Rowse also discusses the role of individual actors and their contributions to historical processes.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, On History offers a comprehensive and insightful exploration of the trends in historical thought during the early twentieth century. Authored by a renowned historian, this work provides a valuable resource for students and scholars of history, offering a rich understanding of the intellectual currents that shaped historical understanding during this pivotal period. Through its analysis of the style and method of history writing, the chief value of the concept of history, and the social process and historical understanding, Rowse's book provides a framework for analyzing the past and shaping our understanding of the present and the future.

Dimension: 198 x 129 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032220741