The Annales School
The Annales School is a group of French historians who emphasized long-term social, economic, and environmental factors in history, rather than just political events or individual actions. They argued that history is shaped more by underlying structures than by singular influential figures. This approach prioritizes “la longue durée,” or the deep structures that evolve over time, highlighting how daily life, collective experiences, and societal changes influence historical outcomes. In essence, while great individuals can impact history, the broader context and long-term trends are often more significant in understanding how societies develop and change.
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The Annales School was a group of French historians founded in the early 20th century, emphasizing long-term social, economic, and environmental factors in history rather than just political events. Instead of focusing on individual leaders and battles, they believed that understanding the overall context—like climate, geography, and everyday life—helps explain historical change. This approach led to a broader understanding of history, involving interdisciplinary methods and encouraging collaboration with fields like sociology and anthropology. Key figures include Marc Bloch and Lucien Febvre, who aimed to present a more comprehensive narrative of human experiences throughout time.