What were the contributions of Leopold von ranke?

Answer 1

Leopold von Ranke was a foundational figure in modern historical scholarship, known for establishing history as a rigorous academic discipline. He emphasized the importance of primary sources and empirical evidence, advocating for a "scientific" approach to history that sought to understand the past as it truly was, rather than through the lens of contemporary values or narratives. Ranke's influential works, such as "The History of the Popes" and "The Ottoman and Spanish Empires," set a standard for historical writing and analysis, emphasizing narrative clarity and a focus on political history. His methodologies laid the groundwork for future historians and shaped the development of historiography.