The Nature of Historical Explanation

The nature of historical explanation involves understanding why past events happened and how they are connected. It seeks to uncover the reasons, causes, and contexts that led to specific outcomes. Historians analyze evidence like documents, artifacts, and testimonies to build coherent narratives that clarify patterns and significance in history. Unlike scientific explanations, historical explanations often deal with complex human decisions, social influences, and cultural factors, making them interpretative rather than purely causal. The goal is to provide a meaningful account that helps us understand how and why the past unfolded as it did.