Description

Book Synopsis
Who is to say how things really were? In formulating a modern answer to the question 'What is History?' Professor Carr shows that the 'facts' of history are simply those which historians have selected for scrutiny. Millions have crossed the Rubicon, but the historians tell us that only Caesar's crossing was significant. All historical facts come to us as a result of interpretative choices by historians influenced by the standards of their age. Yet if absolute objectivity is impossible, the role of the historian need in no way suffer; nor does history lose its fascination. 

With lucidity, Carr casts a light on the proper function of the historian and the vital importance of history in modern society.
 
“This is an admirably stimulating and intrepid book, a bold excursion into a region of central importance where most contemporary philosophers and historians, unaccountably, either fear or disdain to tread.”—Isaiah Berlin, New Statesman

What is History Vintage

    Product form

    £15.84

    Includes FREE delivery

    Order before 4pm today for delivery by Tue 28 Jul 2026.

    A Paperback / softback by Edward Hallett Carr

    10 in stock

      Trusted by thousands of customers. See 2,385+ Customer Reviews

      View other formats and editions of What is History Vintage by Edward Hallett Carr

      Publisher: Random House USA Inc
      Publication Date: 12/10/1967
      ISBN13: 9780394703916, 978-0394703916
      ISBN10: 039470391X
      Also in:
      Historiography

      Description

      Book Synopsis
      Who is to say how things really were? In formulating a modern answer to the question 'What is History?' Professor Carr shows that the 'facts' of history are simply those which historians have selected for scrutiny. Millions have crossed the Rubicon, but the historians tell us that only Caesar's crossing was significant. All historical facts come to us as a result of interpretative choices by historians influenced by the standards of their age. Yet if absolute objectivity is impossible, the role of the historian need in no way suffer; nor does history lose its fascination. 

      With lucidity, Carr casts a light on the proper function of the historian and the vital importance of history in modern society.
       
      “This is an admirably stimulating and intrepid book, a bold excursion into a region of central importance where most contemporary philosophers and historians, unaccountably, either fear or disdain to tread.”—Isaiah Berlin, New Statesman

      Recently viewed products

      © 2026 Book Curl

        • American Express
        • Apple Pay
        • Diners Club
        • Discover
        • Google Pay
        • Maestro
        • Mastercard
        • PayPal
        • Shop Pay
        • Union Pay
        • Visa

        Login

        Forgot your password?

        Don't have an account yet?
        Create account