What Is History?

By Edward Hallet Carr,

Book cover of What Is History?

Book description

'Not only our most distinguished historian but also one of the most valuable contributors to historical theory' Spectator

In answering the question, 'what is history?', E. H. Carr's acclaimed and influential bestseller shows that the facts of history are simply those which the historian selects for scrutiny. His fluent and…

When you buy books, we may earn a commission that helps keep our lights on (or join the rebellion as a member).

Why read it?

2 authors picked What Is History? as one of their favorite books. Why do they recommend it?

This book is a classic, and I wish I had read it even earlier than I did. 

One of the most prominent historians of the 20th century, E.H. Carr, delves into the intricacies of exploring the past. He articulates the significance of interpreting personal memories, discusses how historical ideas are constructed, and examines the impact of a historian's personality on the history they write. These complicated ideas are given in a calm tone and a simple way.

A total must-read for people interested in history!

This book is a classic, for more than half a century, and remains the starting point in the current discussion of the historian’s craft. Edward H. Carr underscores the importance of dialogue in the study of history. History is a process of interaction between the historian and their facts, or between the past and the present. In this dialogue, the historian is not an objective reporter or analyst, but an individual whose world view and scientific approach are shaped by society.

From Yulia's list on how historians work.

Want books like What Is History??

Our community of 12,000+ authors has personally recommended 100 books like What Is History?.

Browse books like What Is History?

Book cover of A Passion for History: Conversations with Denis Crouzet
Book cover of An Autobiography
Book cover of The Historian’s Craft

Share your top 3 reads of 2024!

And get a beautiful page showing off your 3 favorite reads.

1,585

readers submitted
so far, will you?

5 book lists we think you will like!

Interested in philosophy, Nazi Germany, and historiography?

Philosophy 1,790 books
Nazi Germany 159 books
Historiography 50 books