Why is explaining continuity and change important? Explaining continuity and change helps us to comprehend the dynamic nature of history. By identifying what has stayed the same and what has evolved, we can better understand the forces and conditions that shape societies. This skill allows us to appreciate the complexity of historical processes and to see the connections between past and present. 1.6.2 Showme
How to explain continuity and change in historical events Explaining continuity and change in history can be a challenging task, but it becomes more manageable if you break down the process into a few smaller questions. Historians ask a range of questions to help organise their ideas when examining continuity and change, including: • Did something change because of this historical ýgure or event? By addressing these questions, you will be able to provide a clearer picture of how historical events and processes unfold over time. As an example, let’s consider the conquistador Hernán Cortés. The three questions can be used to consider continuity and change by his role in history. • How many people’s lives were affected? • How long-lasting were the changes? Did something change because of this historical ýgure or event? Hernán Cortés led the Spanish conquest of the Aztec civilisation, introducing European diseases that devastated the population, and later became governor of New Spain, spreading Spanish culture in the Americas. Whether these changes were positive or negative depends on perspective; they were likely considered positive by the Spanish but negative by the Aztecs. How many people’s lives were affected? Cortés’s actions immediately affected hundreds of thousands of people, including his soldiers and Tenochtitlan’s 250 000 residents. Long term, millions were impacted due to the establishment of New Spain, indicating his signiýcant role in history.
Source 1 A vintage illustration of Hernan Cortes
How long-lasting were the changes? The changes Cortés brought about permanently altered the Aztec civilisation, leading to its destruction.
Jacaranda Humanities Alive 8 Victorian Curriculum Third Edition
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