History’s Long Journey

Abstract

This introduction traces the evolving discipline of history, from its nineteenth-century transformation under the influence of science, nationalism, and Eurocentrism to the critical interventions of the twentieth century that challenged its foundational assumptions. It examines how the rise of new perspectives—such as subaltern studies, narrative history, and critiques of the colonial archive—reshaped historical enquiry. The essay also highlights the impact of digital technology and democratisation on archival practices, opening new avenues for research while posing fresh challenges. It calls for a balanced approach that values both objectivity and narrative in the pursuit of historical knowledge.