The father of history is widely considered to be Herodotus, a Greek historian who lived in the 5th century BCE. He is renowned for his groundbreaking work, The Histories, which is a detailed account of the Greco-Persian Wars (499–479 BCE).
Herodotus's writings are significant because he:
- Emphasized observation and investigation: He traveled extensively to gather firsthand accounts and research historical events.
- Utilized primary sources: He interviewed eyewitnesses, examined documents, and consulted oral traditions.
- Presented a narrative style: He structured his accounts in a compelling and engaging way, focusing on the human element and the causes and consequences of events.
Herodotus's emphasis on research and narrative storytelling established a foundation for future historians, earning him the title of "father of history".
