(Photo: University of Chicago Law School)
"History and
law are two sides of a polished mirror". As we read it, that is there any
relation of history with the law, then suddenly it strikes our mind that these
two are different subjects because in India students mostly take topics in
relation with the subjects they are studying. But when we think beyond, the
subject we get to know that history and law are interrelated. Laws are
influenced by events in history. The events which have happened before and what
their outcomes were and what things can be changed for the better. In taking
all these points in mind, laws are made. We take a lesson from our history to
make laws.
related to law. As we read the incidents in our history, they are somehow
related to the laws which existed at those times. The British laws which are
still followed now from our history are Indian penal code,1860; the transfer of
property act, 1882; the foreigner's act, 1946; Income tax act, 1961; Indian
evidence act,1872; Indian police act,1861; etc.
bads all somehow share a relationship with the laws and rules. The movements
which changed the life of many countries also took place because of the heinous
laws in countries like the French revolution, the American civil war, the
National movements in India, and many more. All are related to laws that became
unbearable torture on the victims. One can study the connection between law and
history in comparative law. Comparison of laws of different time scales can be
done. Law is a process that makes the public civilized, abides by norms
that are set by society from time to time. Hence, the law is continuity in
search of humanity and civility.
that arises is: "Which part of history is relevant in today's time"?
According to my, contemporary history is most important in the present time.
Contemporary history includes the span of historical events starting from 1945.
These events are most relevant to the present time scenario. Many historians
describe the early modern period as the time frame between 1500 and 1800.
This period mainly follows the late middle-age period. Further, it is marked by
the initial European colonies, the beginning of recognizable nation-states as
well as the rise of strong centralized government.
history helps in strengthening the cultural identity of a nation. This is
because when we learn about the cultural heritage of our race or religion, we
engulf ourselves in an abundance of information, which often depicts the
decisions our ancestors made or the traditions that have been carried down the
generations. These define who we are and why we exist in our society.
is beautiful. Many of the historians who most appeal to the general reading
public, know the importance of dramatic and skillful writing as well as of
accuracy. History is very important because it helps us to understand the
present. If we will listen to what history has to say, we can come to a sound
understanding of the past that will tell us much about the problems we now
face. If we refuse to listen to history, we will find ourselves fabricating a
past that reinforces our understanding of current problems.
Mosse once said, "What man is, the only history tells." History is
interlinked with law. With truly reading, one can have a holistic view of the
idea of the concept. In my view, contemporary history is more relevant in
today's time. The study of it is still relevant albeit the uncertainty of
today's world. As the saying goes, "With age comes wisdom", is a true
reminder of the experience one gains with the passage of times (which is
history).
