Microhistory

From Free net encyclopedia

Microhistory is a branch of the study of history. First developed in the 1970s microhistory is the study of the past on a very small scale. The most common type of microhistory is the study of a small town or village. Other common studies include looking at individuals of minor importance, or analysing a single painting. As the roots of major events are grounded in the actions of villagers these studies often have much larger ramifications. Microhistory is an important component of the "new history" that has emerged since the 1960s. It is usually done in close collaboration with the social sciences, such as anthropology and sociology.

Microhistory is to be distinguished from local history, in which research is not seen as a case study for more general historical trends, but is appeciated for its inherent interest to the local community.

Noted microhistorians include: