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What is the significance of studying history on modern life?

History is very significant to modern life.  For example, it teaches one to read critically and to use media sources in a discerning manner.  Also, history teaches lessons about contemporary social and political life.  People look at the American presidential election of 2016 and compare it to the election of 1912 when the Republican party split.  There are also lessons to be learned from America's growing divide between rich and poor and the social changes and revolutions that took place throughout history because of this divide.  History also provides inspiration in looking at the lives of great people, such as Harriet Tubman and George Washington.  History gives one a sense of perspective.  In the media, people often throw out the word "unprecedented" a great deal but a careful study of history shows that many of these events do have some precedent.  History may not always repeat, but it certainly rhymes.  

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