The historian's toolbox a student's guide to the theory and craft of history

Synopsis

What is history and how do we know it? How has our understanding of history changed and developed over the years? And how do historians and students actually go about "doing" history? This book introduces students to the theory, craft, and methods of history and provides a series of "tools" to help them read, research, and understand the past. History professors are always looking for short, readable guides that will excite and educate students on the importance of history. This "how-to" book fills this void, providing both a theoretical and practical overview. Written in an engaging and entertaining style, the first half of the book is a stimulating, philosophical introduction to the key elements of history -- evidence, narrative, judgment -- that explores how the study and concepts of history have evolved over the centuries.