context in history

Context in history refers to the circumstances and conditions—social, political, economic, and cultural—that surround an event or period. Understanding context helps us grasp why events happened the way they did, what influenced people's actions, and how those events impact the present and future. It allows us to see the bigger picture beyond isolated facts, helping to avoid misinterpretation. For example, knowing the social tensions of the 1960s enriches our understanding of the civil rights movement, highlighting the struggles and motivations of the people involved.