Learning history today – a pivotal asset for Malta’s expanding cultural tourism industry

Abstract

Many, especially from those among the younger generation, have often been heard questioning the need for studying history. In an introduction to why history is an important subject to study, Peter N. Stearns (1998) opens his deliberations with this oft argued remark: People live in the present. They plan for and worry about the future. History, however, is the study of the past. Given all the demands that press in from living in the present and anticipating what is yet to come, why bother with what has been? Stearns moves on to list and discuss a number of reasons why history is indeed useful for today and tomorrow. He sees history as a valuable means by which people and societies can be understood. It also helps us to comprehend the changes that have transformed the society of which we are part. Through historical knowledge and awareness people tend to be able to build a moral understanding of our predecessors’ actions. Furthermore, studying history leads to a firm grasp of a community’s identity as well as the moulding of good citizens.