Final answer:
Historians study the past through a combination of physical artifacts and written documents, forming interpretations based on primary sources and material culture, while critically considering context and potential biases to construct narratives of human history.
Step-by-step explanation:
How Historians Study the Past
Historians utilize a variety of sources to study the past. They interpret the meaning of physical artifacts uncovered by archaeologists, which include bones, pottery, pollen, and structures. These materials provide invaluable insights into societies before the emergence of the written word. Moreover, historians concentrate on written documents to understand the attitudes and events within historical societies. It is through the rigorous analysis of primary sources like government documents, letters, and works of art that historians form foundational knowledge of the past.
However, not all primary sources are considered equal. The written word, which began with the earliest civilizations in the Fertile Crescent, is deemed more reliable evidence for constructing narratives of the past. Yet, historians must approach all sources critically, mindful of possible bias and the broader context in which they were created. This approach helps in constructing and revising narratives that make sense of human history.
In essence, historians make sense of the past by piecing together evidence from both material culture and recorded histories. This often involves cross-checking various types of sources and interpreting what artifacts meant to the societies that produced them. Such interpretations are subject to change, reflecting the evolving understanding of historical contexts and the discovery of new evidence.