How nations and individuals react to situations is dependent on their cultural, political, religious, economic, and military history. By understanding the history of others, we can best determine how to relate with our fellow man. By learning the lessons of history, understanding the implications of the actions of others and delving into the past we can better understand our present. When we understand the past, we are less likely to repeat mistakes or at least recognize the repetitious mistakes of others. We must look wholistically at our past, embrace the lessons of history, and understand our present.