Why is studying history so important?

​History is important to study because it is essential for all of us in understanding ourselves and the world around us. There is a history of every field and topic, from medicine, to music, to art. To know and understand the stories and lessons of the past is absolutely necessary to one's maturity and growth as a citizen and member of a thriving community. History gives us a very clear picture of how the various aspects of society — such as technology, governmental systems, and even society as a whole — worked in the past so we understand how it came to work the way it does today.  The study of history takes our mind off ourselves and sets us the journey of discovering why society and communities behave the way they do!  History can help provide us with a sense of identity. This is actually one of the main reasons that history is still taught in schools around the world. Historians have been able to learn about how countries, families, and groups were formed, and how they evolved and developed over time. When an individual takes it upon themselves to dive deep into their own family’s history, they can understand how their family interacted with larger historical change.  The study of history promotes curiosity that leads to needed knowledge of the world around us and the personal wisdom needed to thrive in the pursuit of a meaningful, purposeful life.  It seems to me that our world, our country, and our communities are calling out for mature individuals and other minded people!