Difference Between History and Historiography

Key Difference

History and historiography, while closely related, differ in scope and focus. History refers to the study and record of past events, cultures, and civilizations. It encompasses the actual events and experiences of people and societies through time. Historiography, on the other hand, is the study of how history is written and interpreted. It examines the methods, biases, sources, and perspectives used by historians to construct historical narratives.

Comparative Analysis

1. Definition and Scope:
   • History: The record and study of past events.
   • Historiography: The study of historical writing and methodologies.
2. Focus:
   • History: Concentrates on what happened in the past.
   • Historiography: Focuses on how history is recorded and interpreted.
3. Methodology:
   • History: Based on evidence from sources like documents, artifacts.
   • Historiography: Analyzes historians’ approaches, biases, and interpretations.
4. Purpose:
   • History: To understand and learn from past events.
   • Historiography: To critique and understand the writing of history.
5. Nature of Study:
   • History: Descriptive, factual.
   • Historiography: Analytical, critical.

Table Summary

Feature	History	Historiography
Definition	Study of past events	Study of historical writing
Focus	What happened	How history is recorded
Methodology	Evidence-based	Analyzes historical methods
Purpose	Understand the past	Critique historical narratives
Nature	Descriptive, factual	Analytical, critical

History and historiography are intertwined yet distinct disciplines. While history seeks to uncover and understand past events, historiography critically examines the methods and narratives through which history is told and understood.