The fourteenth and fifteenth centuries were a time of constant warfare across Europe. These wars affected almost the entire Christian world. In many ways, they were similar to other wars, but they are remembered for their long duration and extreme cruelty. The violence in these wars was not always motivated by national or religious hatred. Instead, it often resulted from the systematic nature of warfare, where murder, looting, and pillage were common, and there was little punishment for the most brutal acts Understanding Heroes and Villains.
The Focus of Historical Records
Historians of the time, called chroniclers, mostly wrote about war and kings. They described battles, sieges, and the negotiations that led to or ended wars. Peace was rare, and long periods without conflict were almost nonexistent. During these rare periods of calm, chroniclers focused on the lives of kings, the activities of courts, and the role of the church.
Unfortunately, the common people were largely ignored in these accounts. The farmers, laborers, and servants who worked tirelessly and suffered from wars were not considered worthy of mention. Their contributions to the wealth of kings and the cost of battles were enormous, yet historians rarely recorded their experiences.
Changing Perspectives on History
At that time, the dignity and importance of the people were not recognized. History was seen as the story of princes, courts, and churches, rather than of ordinary citizens. Kings were considered the main actors in history, and the lives of common people were deemed unimportant Private Balkan Trip.
However, over time, attitudes toward history have changed. The progress of civil and religious freedom made historians realize that ordinary people are the true source of power. The labor, creativity, and resilience of the population shape societies far more than the actions of rulers alone. Modern historians focus on the lives of the people, as they are the foundation of communities, economies, and governments.
History of Mankind
Today, history is written as the story of humanity, not only of individuals. The events of kings and courts are still studied, but they are placed in a broader context that considers the impact on ordinary people. Wars, laws, and policies are evaluated not just for their political outcomes but also for their effects on society and everyday life.
In this way, history has become more human-centered. The experiences, struggles, and achievements of the people are now the main focus. Modern historians aim to record how societies develop, how people resist oppression, and how communities survive and flourish even in difficult times.
By shifting the focus from rulers to the population, history becomes a record of human progress, reflecting both the hardships and the resilience of mankind.
