Dating (Chronology)

The scholarly, systematic study of history is what makes it possible to measure spans of time, distinguish them from each other, and place them in the context of broader historical processes. Chronology, the study of the foundations and use of time calculation, analyses and describes various forms of dating, as well as their differing application in various places and times. Chronology thus allows scholars to interpret dates named in documents and other primary sources correctly, but also to test their accuracy and sometimes even to correct them. Chronological questions can crop up in historical research in various concrete forms, as the following example is intended to show. Further questions can be addressed via the further readings suggested at the end of the chapter.