UNIVERSAL HISTORY Meaning and
Definition
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Universal history refers to a comprehensive and all-encompassing account of the past, covering a vast range of events, cultures, and peoples from around the world. It is a holistic perspective on human history that aims to provide a systemic understanding of the major developments and trends that have shaped the world from the earliest recorded civilizations to the present.
The term "universal" signifies the scope of this history, as it attempts to incorporate every significant era, society, and phenomenon, without favoring any particular nation, culture, or ideology. It strives to provide a broad and inclusive historical narrative, exploring the interactions, exchanges, and influences between different civilizations and regions.
Universal history typically traces the evolution of human societies, political systems, technological advancements, cultural achievements, and major historical events such as wars, revolutions, and economic transformations. It encompasses the study of various disciplines such as archaeology, anthropology, sociology, linguistics, and economics to gather insights and evidence from diverse sources.
The objective of universal history is to offer a framework to better understand the interconnectedness of human development on a global scale, allowing for comparisons, analysis, and interpretations of various historical phenomena across time and space. It aims to highlight the shared experiences, values, and challenges faced by humanity as a whole, emphasizing the common threads that bind all cultures and civilizations throughout history. By studying universal history, scholars seek to gain insights into the collective human experience and the patterns that have shaped societies over time.
Etymology of UNIVERSAL HISTORY
The word "universal history" derives from the combination of two key elements: "universal" and "history".
The term "universal" originated from the Latin word "universalis", which is a combination of "universus" meaning "whole" or "entire" and "alis" indicating "of or pertaining to". In essence, "universal" signifies something that encompasses or relates to the entirety or totality of a particular subject.
On the other hand, the word "history" originates from the Greek word "historia", which means "a learning or inquiry". It later evolved in Latin as "historia", signifying "narrative, account, or record". History essentially refers to a systematic study or record of past events, particularly those involving human societies, cultures, and achievements.
