Question

Explain Leopold von Ranké’s perspective of history?

Answer 1

Leopold von Ranké from the University of Berlin greatly influenced the historiography of the nineteenth century.

1. He mentioned the critical method of historical research and even emphasised the importance of information gathered through original documents. 
2. According to him, all types of documents associated with a historical event should be examined with the greatest care and he believes that the historical truth can be reached only through this method.
3. He criticised the imaginative narration of history. His books ‘The Theory and Practice of History’ and ‘The Secret of World History’ contain a collection of his articles.

In this way, Leopold von Ranké emphasised the critical method of historical research.