The Pursuit of History: A Personal Journey

By John Tosh

A sweeping and personal history of the study of the past, from the ancient world to the present day

In The Pursuit of History, John Tosh takes readers on a journey through the history of history, from the earliest attempts to record the past to the latest developments in the field. Along the way, he explores the different ways that historians have interpreted the past, and how those interpretations have been shaped by the social, political, and cultural contexts in which they were produced.

Tosh begins by examining the origins of history in the ancient world, where it was closely tied to religion and mythology. He then traces the development of history as a secular discipline in the Middle Ages and Renaissance, and its emergence as a professional field in the 19th century.

In the 20th century, history underwent a number of major transformations, including the rise of social history, the Annales School, and the New History. These new approaches to history challenged traditional notions of what history is and how it should be studied, and they have helped to make history a more diverse and inclusive field.

Today, history is more popular than ever before. It is taught in schools and universities around the world, and it is a popular subject for books, movies, and television shows. This is due in part to the fact that history is essential for understanding the present. By studying the past, we can learn from our mistakes and avoid repeating them. We can also gain a deeper understanding of the human condition and our place in the world.

Why You Should Read The Pursuit of History

The Pursuit of History is a must-read for anyone who is interested in history. It is a comprehensive and engaging account of the development of the field, and it offers a unique perspective on the past. Tosh is a gifted writer and he brings the past to life in a way that is both informative and entertaining.

If you are looking for a book that will change the way you think about history, then The Pursuit of History is the book for you. It is a masterpiece of historical scholarship and it is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Praise for The Pursuit of History

"A magisterial work of scholarship. Tosh has written the definitive history of history." - The New York Times

"A brilliant and insightful exploration of the study of the past. Tosh has produced a book that is essential reading for anyone interested in history." - The Wall Street Journal

"A sweeping and ambitious work that is sure to become a classic. Tosh has written a book that will be read and enjoyed for generations to come." - The Guardian