Jamaica Taghoy Sir

Realthren Red BS Entrepreneurship 4

Hist 111. Readings in Philippine History

The Importance of Learning History

Some individuals may find history dull, but it's really one of the most
practical subjects we can learn. It's not merely memorizing dates and names;
history teaches us about the world we currently live in. Through examining
what occurred previously, we can make informed decisions for our future.
One key reason why we need to study history is that it allows us to
know why things are as they are now. Anything we see around us - our
government, our culture, even our own lives has been influenced by the past.
For instance, if we are trying to figure out why there are battles in some
regions, we must consider their past. History provides us with the context we
require to understand what's going on today. One more advantage of
learning history is that it helps us develop useful thinking skills. When we
study history, we learn how to analyze evidence, identify biases, and
appreciate different points of view. These are not only important skills to
have in school, but in life in general. Whether we're reading a newspaper
article or deciding on a crucial issue, the critical thinking skills we gain in
history class can be helpful in distinguishing facts from opinions.
History also aids in making us aware of our identity. Through history
about our family, our locality's history, or our country's history, we learn
more about ourselves. It doesn't imply that we should only study the "good"
aspects of history - we must learn from errors as well. Most of the issues of
today have their origins in the past, and by learning about them, we can
strive to get better solutions.
Others believe that history is pointless because it's the past, but that's
not the case. History is about learning about change over time. The world
continues to change, and history provides us with examples of how societies
have responded to change in the past. Whether technological changes,
political changes, or social changes, examples of the past can help us
navigate new challenges.
In our working lives, history can be unexpectedly helpful. Most
employers appreciate individuals who can investigate details, make sense of
complicated situations, and express themselves clearly - all abilities which
history imparts. Law, business, journalism, and government all rely on
historical knowledge. Even in science and technology, knowing how past
discoveries were made can contribute to future innovations.
Learning history makes us good citizens. In a democracy, we require
voters to know how the government operates, how policies influence people,
and how to judge leaders' assertions. History teaches us what works and
doesn't work in society based on real-life situations. It allows us to identify
patterns and not repeat errors.
In short, history is important because it teaches us about our world,
builds essential skills, and allows us to make more informed decisions. It's
not about the past; it's about applying knowledge of the past to make our
present and future better.
Elmer P. Dayuja Sir
Realthren Red BS Entrepreneurship 4
Hist 111. Readings in Philippine History

Why Study History?

For me, history is important to study because it teaches us about
ourselves, other individuals, and the world that we currently inhabit.
Everything that we have is derived from the past. Studying history teaches
us how things began, how they evolved, and why our world is such a way
today. Without history, it would be difficult for us to comprehend culture,
religion, and even the issues that surround society.
History also has lessons to learn. If we know what occurred previously,
then we can avoid repeating the same errors and become better decision-
makers in life. For instance, history teaches us the negative impacts of war
and discrimination, and thus now we know why peace and equality are
extremely crucial.
Another is that history provides us with identity. We learn who we are
and where we originated. Based on our family's history, our community, and
even our country, history provides us with a good sense of identity. History
can also motivate us, because we look at how individuals in the past
remained strong and courageous even in difficult times.
Finally, history makes us good citizens. If we understand where our
government, laws, and social problems came from, then we will be more
active and responsible members of society. History is more than
memorization of dates and names; it is learning about how the world
functions and how we can help it function.
In brief, history is not merely the past. It assists us in comprehending
the present and informing the future. Thus, it is very essential to study
history.
Basil V. Valdez
Sir Realthren Red BS Entrepreneurship 4
Hist 111. Readings in Philippine History

My Understanding of “Why Study History” by Peter N. Stearns

As a student, I now see that studying history is far more than just
memorizing names, dates, and events from the past. In his essay, Peter N.
Stearns explains that history is essential because it helps us understand how
people and societies behave, how they change over time, and how the world
we live in today came to be. It is like a giant laboratory of human experience
where we can examine past events as experiments that reveal how
decisions, values, and circumstances shape society.
One of the most important lessons I learned from the essay is that
history gives us a deeper understanding of people and the world around us.
We cannot fully understand the present without knowing the events and
forces that shaped it. Whether it’s political changes, social problems, or even
technological progress, history shows us the causes and patterns behind
them.
Stearns also points out that history is not only useful for learning facts
but also for shaping our values and moral judgment. When we study the lives
of people in the past—both famous figures and ordinary individuals—we see
examples of courage, perseverance, and even mistakes. These real-life
stories give us a chance to reflect on our own beliefs and decisions.
Another key point is that history gives us identity. By learning about
our family history, our community’s background, or our nation’s struggles
and achievements, we develop a stronger sense of who we are and where we
come from. This connection to the past helps us understand our place in the
present and gives us a foundation for shaping the future.
In terms of citizenship, Stearns emphasizes that history is vital for
becoming an informed and responsible member of society. It equips us with
the knowledge of how political institutions were formed, how national values
developed, and how societies interact with one another. More importantly, it
trains us to think critically, evaluating evidence, considering multiple
perspectives, and questioning claims—skills that are essential not only in
politics but in everyday decision-making.
History also plays an important role in developing skills that are
valuable in many careers. It teaches research abilities, the skill to interpret
different sources of information, and the capacity to analyze complex issues.
Even though studying history might not directly lead to a specific job title, it
prepares us for long-term growth in our careers because it builds
adaptability, analytical thinking, and communication skills.
 Stearns’ message is clear: we should study history not just because
schools require it, but because it is necessary for understanding the world
and for living effectively in it. History shapes our thinking, strengthens our
values, and sharpens our skills. It connects the past, present, and future,
showing us that every decision we make today becomes part of someone
else’s history tomorrow.
Prince Vence A. Oña
Sir Realthren Red BS Entrepreneurship 4
Hist 111. Readings in Philippine History

Why History is Important to Study

My reflection about this study is that history is very important to us. I
learned that history is not just about old stories or memorizing dates. It is all
about people, places, and events that happened before us. When we study
history, we understand how people lived, how they solved problems, and
how the world changed.
I realized that history helps us know who we are. It gives us identity,
like for example, knowing where our family came from and how our country
was built and united. It also teaches us lessons about life, like courage, hard
work, and respect. Some people in the past made good decisions, and some
made mistakes. By learning these, we can do better in the future. History
also makes us better citizens. If we know how our leaders, our laws, and our
country started, we will appreciate it more. We will also learn how to think
carefully when we hear different ideas. History is not just about stories
because these stories are the stories of the people who fight for our freedom,
but also about the ordinary people who worked hard. Studying history makes
me feel connected to them. And, to my professor for the subject of history,
he teaches us how important history is from everyone. I remember from him
that history will be useless when we forget it.
In conclusion, I learned that we should study history because it helps
us understand the past, the present, and even the future. It is like a teacher
that never stops giving us a lessons.