History and Politics

Politics has always been an integral part of history. The decisions made and the paths taken have shaped events throughout time. It is to be expected and is the very foundation of the most notable moments in history: wars and conquests, uprising and treaties. Politicians and governments have defined past events and have shaped the future.

Today, however, we are starting to see politicians and governments using the past as justification for current actions. While there are some cases where it may make sense, it is often misguided. In a previous post, I discussed the dangers of rewriting history. This is the shaky ground on which we currently stand. Politicians and political parties are changing the facts and misinterpreting the events of our past to define a future in the image they wish to conjure. They are not interested in learning from history, but in using it to justify their actions. The focus is always negative and never for the good of the people.

Why do we not look at the great successes in history and promote those lessons? Where did our ancestors succeed and where did they fail? How can we do better? How can our governments honor our history while looking to create a better future? We should be honest about the past and humbled by the lessons that it offers.

One of the best examples of this failure today is the radical and illogical push towards socialism. Anyone who supports socialism has no knowledge of history. History has taught us time and again that it will always fail, yet the naive and power hungry push the idea on the ignorant and uninformed.

Politics shapes history, but history should not shape politics. It should inform and guide our future decisions, but never be the driving force. Remember history, but be wary of politicians that use it to justify their cause. Respect history and be skeptical of the politicians.

Do your own research. Learn the facts and be informed. Do not simply believe everything you read on social media. In the age of AI, be very leery of everything out there. It is so easy to falsify information and simulate videos and photographs. Seek out trusted sources and know your history. Our future depends on it!