Heinrich von Ranke

Heinrich von Ranke (1795-1886) was a German historian regarded as a father of modern historical writing. He emphasized the importance of primary sources, such as documents and firsthand accounts, to understand the past accurately. Ranke believed history should be objective and factual, seeking to portray events as they truly happened. His method focused on rigorous research and critical analysis, moving away from earlier historical narratives that were often based on interpretations or myths. Ranke's influence shaped the field of history by establishing standards for scholarly research and emphasizing the significance of understanding the context of historical events.