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About this quote

What does it mean?
The quote suggests that history relies on unproven claims because absolute proof for every character judgment is impossible.
In plain terms
History can only be written if we accept unproven statements about people.
What can you take from it?
History depends on accepting claims that cannot be fully proven.

Where it applies

  • debating historical figures
  • evaluating character
  • writing history

Putting it to work

  • understanding history
  • critiquing figures
  • journalism

Questions to consider

  • Is all history truly factual?
  • How do we judge historical figures?

Another view

Relying on unproven claims can lead to historical inaccuracies.

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