The History Wheel

The transcript discusses the evolution of historical themes from the 1950s to the present. Initially dominated by Marxist ideology, history saw a shift towards cultural and linguistic perspectives in the 1970s, influenced by figures like Clifford Geertz and Quentin Skinner. This period emphasized the study of symbols and language. Over time, revisionists emerged, revisiting political history and biography. The speaker advises historians to focus on what they find important, as historical trends are cyclical.

What was a significant reason for recruiting non-Marxists in the 50s and 60s?

• To encourage linguistic studies

• To support political history

• To promote cultural history

• To balance Marxist ideology

Which field greatly influenced the shift to cultural history in the late 60s and 70s?

• Linguistics

• Economics

• Political Science

• Anthropology

Who was a key figure in promoting the study of symbols in history?

• Michel Foucault

• Clifford Gertz

• Karl Marx

• Quentin Skinner

What was the 'linguistic turn' in historical studies?

• A focus on economic history

• A shift towards cultural history

• An emphasis on language and symbols

• A return to Marxist ideology

What is the advice given regarding following historical trends?

• Always follow the latest trend

• Adopt Marxist perspectives

• Focus on what is personally important

• Ignore all historical paradigms