History is a reflection of the past and a teacher for the future.

O my people, hear my teaching.
Listen to the words that I speak.
My words will be in parables, 
Things from of old, hidden, mystique.

What we have heard and we have known
Is what our fathers have told us.
We'll not hide things from our children.
Next generations will discuss.
 
Tell the worthy deeds of the Lord.
Praise His wonders and see His might.
See wonderful works He has done.
His stories to share day and night.
(Based on Psalm 78:1-4)

Generally speaking, people are motivated by what they believe. Therefore, to understand history it’s necessary to know what a community believed that would lead them to do what they did. In other words, much of history is motivated by people’s religion.

“Faith is what powers the human side of history. Find out what people believe and you’ll know who they are.

Mansfield