British historian Eric Hobsbawm was well-known for his profound understanding of national identities and historical processes. He underlined the significance of comprehending the origins of nations and their histories rather than concentrating solely on their present or future.

It would be a strange sight to see a tree without roots. In a similar vein, Hobsbawm maintained that without a rich past to ground them in place and time, nations are incomplete. This history provides context for the country's existence and is more than just a list of dates and occasions. It encompasses social accomplishments, political conflicts, cultural heritage, and shared memories.

Why one country is different from another is justified by its history. Nations derive legitimacy from their historical narratives, much like various families can trace their origins back through generations. Historians actively create these narratives by assembling the disparate pieces of time into a cohesive whole, making them more than merely recollections.

The way historians piece together ancient civilizations is similar to that of archaeologists. They delve deeply into archives, analyze artifacts, and piece together the centuries-long events that molded societies. This process is essential because it gives current national identities context and clarifies why some countries still adhere to particular policies or hold particular values.

Essentially, Hobsbawm's perspective emphasizes how important history is in determining a country's identity and position in the world. Our current actions lose their complete significance and meaning when we are unaware of our origins.