History: The Blend of Personal Research and School Learning
As a seasoned SEO professional, I often reflect on the diverse sources that shape my understanding of historical events. A significant portion of my knowledge comes from personal research, while the other half comes from schooling and universities. However, it's important to note that a considerable amount of so-called 'historical' information is often colored by the biases and agendas of those in power.
The Dominance of Propaganda in Historical Education
The content presented in schools and universities can be heavily influenced by political and ideological perspectives. For example, in many countries, the curriculum is designed to foster a sense of national pride and unity, rather than presenting an objective, multi-faceted view of history. This can lead to a distorted understanding of events and their impacts. For me, a lot of history is based on the propaganda of the country in which I was taught, a situation that others may find similar but less pronounced.
The Importance of Personal Research
While I have some foundational knowledge from school, the majority of my understanding comes from my own research and exploration. This has been especially true since my retirement when I enrolled in a course at the Workers' Educational Association. The course on Thomas Paine and the Horizons of Democracy piqued my interest in British history, specifically from the English Civil War to the early Victorian period. This personal engagement with history has enabled me to develop a deeper, more nuanced understanding that transcends the typical school curriculum.
The Myth of Aryan Invasion
It's remarkable how certain historical narratives, like the Aryan invasion theory, continue to be perpetuated even when they lack substantial, verifiable evidence. Many academic theorists and scholars, particularly in the colonial era, propagated these ideas despite the lack of credible backing. For instance, the term 'Aryan' has been used to define a race or culture, and the 'Aryan invasion' theory has contributed to a variety of cultural and historical disputes.
Modern scholars and researchers, such as Ramanujam Velikovsky, challenge these traditional narratives. Work by individuals who possess knowledge in fields like astronomy and linguistics, such as knowledge of Brahmi lipi and Sanskrit, have thoroughly debunked the Aryan invasion theory. These scholars argue that historical accounts should be based on solid evidence and repeatable research rather than outdated belief systems.
Religion and Historical Research
Historical research sponsored by religions can be particularly problematic. Instead of seeking objective truths, religiously influenced research often serves to reinforce existing beliefs and dogmas. This can cloud the historical narrative and prevent a comprehensive understanding of events.
Fortunately, with the advent of the internet and digital resources, it has become easier to fact-check information and cross-reference sources. This democratization of historical information empowers individuals to engage with and challenge conventional narratives, leading to a richer and more accurate understanding of the past.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the blend of personal research and school learning has been instrumental in shaping my understanding of history. While I have received a foundation from my educational institutions, my own research and exploration have provided a deeper and more nuanced perspective. The historical narratives that we receive can often be biased, and it's crucial to engage in personal and critical thinking to uncover the true histories of our past.