Final thoughts...

The History Engine provided insight into the fact that history is a largely interpretive process. Looking through primary and secondary sources and then framing an analysis around them gives historians a degree of authority I had not before realized. What is also difficult about this process is inevitable influence of the interpretations of others; reading their analysis can profoundly influence your own understanding of various texts.

It was interesting to examine snapshot events that go largely undiscussed in the broad sense of history. Textbooks still have their value by providing a framework into which we can assimilate our interpretations, but looking at specific instances in history which appear to have only a small realm of influence can further our understanding of an event by examining its local impact as opposed to only its national significance. The opportunities provided by the History Engine gave me a nuanced understanding of historical importance.