History, derived from the Greek word “istoria,” signifies inquiry and knowledge gained through investigation. It encompasses the organized and critical study of past human thoughts, actions, and events, employing evidence interpretation. As an academic discipline, history serves to understand past political, social, and economic events, evaluate current conditions, and foresee future developments in these areas. Historians categorize human history into pre-historic, before the advent of writing around 4000 BC, and historical periods thereafter. Key uses of history include learning from past successes and avoiding mistakes, establishing identities for families and societies, and fostering critical thinking skills. However, misuses of history include selective interpretations and present-day value judgments.