Reflections on the Value of Studying History

Tue, 05 May 2026 15:56:00 +0200

In this article, Juan Manuel Grijalvo explores the relevance of studying history, especially for younger generations who may question its importance. He references classic maxims like 'Historia magistra vitae'—history is the teacher of life—and the notion that societies that forget their history are doomed to repeat it. Grijalvo illustrates his point through a review of a book about a 1871 naval voyage aboard the frigate 'Arapiles,' connecting it to broader historical events such as the Spanish Independence War, the Carlist Wars, and political upheavals of the 19th century. He emphasizes the need to understand past events to contextualize present-day political patterns, including the resurgence of monarchical tendencies worldwide. Using examples from U.S. politics, Cuba, and the restoration of the Spanish Bourbon monarchy, he demonstrates how historical knowledge helps interpret contemporary events. The article also introduces the concept of 'Alternative History' to engage readers in t