It's very similar to the phrase "History Repeats itself".
If you have someone who has betrayed you in the past, and they want to be friends again, that past history means that they aren't a good person and will most likely betray you again. Another example is if you lost contact with a good friend and they find you again, the history reminds you that they are a good person and you should trust them.
I don't think this is the most helpful but I hope it at least gives you an idea on what to write down ^^