Historical evidence is always interpreted through a lens of interpretation from "summary" of What is History? by E. H. Carr
When we examine historical evidence, we must always remember that it is not a straightforward process. The evidence we have at our disposal has been shaped and molded by a variety of factors that influence how we interpret it. These factors can include our own personal biases, the cultural context in which we live, and the prevailing historical narratives of our time. As a result, historical evidence is never simply a collection of facts that speak for themselves. The lens through which we view historical evidence is crucial in determining how we understand the past. This lens colors our perception of events, shaping the way we interpret the evidence before us. For example, if we approach a set of documents with a predetermined belief about a particular historical figure, we are likely to interpret those documents in a way that confirms our existing beliefs. In this way, our interpretations of historical evidence are always subject to our own biases and preconceptions. Furthermore, the interpretation of historical evidence is not a static process. As our understanding of the past changes, so too do our interpretations of the evidence. New discoveries, changing cultural norms, and evolving historical theories all play a role in shaping how we interpret the evidence that is available to us. In this sense, historical interpretation is a dynamic and ever-changing process that is constantly being reevaluated and updated. It is important to acknowledge the role that interpretation plays in the study of history. By recognizing that historical evidence is always filtered through a lens of interpretation, we can approach the past with a more critical eye, questioning our own assumptions and biases. Only by acknowledging the subjective nature of historical interpretation can we hope to develop a more nuanced and complex understanding of the past.
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