Historical Research

    Historical research is the process of systematically examining past events to give an account of what has happened in the past. It is also defined as a type of secondary data analysis to determine past social attitudes and community structure and how they have changed over time. This historical method of study can be applied to all fields of study because of its both quantitative and qualitative variables can be used in the collection of historical information. Historical research is not just an accumulation of facts and dates or not even a description of past events. It is a flowing, dynamic account of past events which involves an interpretation of the events in an attempt to recapture the nuances, personalities and ideas that influenced these events. One of the main goals of historical research is to communicate and understand about past events.

There are some steps have to be followed before conducting a historical research to achieve a reliable resut

1.      The recognition of a historical problem or the identification of a need for certain historical knowledge.

2.      The gathering of as much relevant information about the problem or topic as possible.

3.       If appropriate, the forming of hypothesis that tentatively explain relationships between historical factors

4.      The rigorous collection and organizations of evidence and the verification of the authenticity and veracity of information and its sources

5.       The selection , organization  and analysis of the most pertinent collected evidence and the drawing of conclusion

6.      The recording of conclusion in a meaningful narrative.

The significance of Historical Research

1.       To uncover the unknown.

2.      To answer questions.

3.       To identify the relationship that the past has to the present.

4.      To record and evaluate the accomplishments of individuals, agencies or institutions.

5.      To assist in understanding the culture in which we live.