Question

How do you define public history? Why is it important to produce history for public consumption?  What experience(s) do you have with public history and how does the field interest you?

Answer 1

A range of activities taken by individuals who are trained and have knowledge of historical events and things associated with it and hence spread the useful information to the public. These people conduct researches for better findings and information to inspire public in large numbers  thus providing credible information to them and giving them factual explanations. It is important as history being a strong part of our past and some relevant events which have existed and had changed the dynamics of the world we live in. It is vital to know about past events, some great personalities and their work which has provided us with the opportunities we have today. Without knowing the history, we cannot even reflect upon and make novel things that are needed and is important for our society, culture or region where we live. Honestly, there have been times when public history was part of my daily life. My cousin was a leader of a political party and he used to actually work and uplift the poor. We also had a campaign on women environment and exclaimed that how women are also part of the society and deserve the same freedom as men in all areas of life. We made them remember about our lady leaders and great people like Raja Rammohan Roy who inspired people against social evils and that campaign was a great success. This is actually a field with diverse knowledge and one needs a lot of patience since its not easy to influence and inspire the masses. there is not one person but millions out there and you need to efficient in your work and your goal which you want to achieve ultimately.