Local History Research as a Part of the National Identity Formation System

Abstract

The purpose of the work is to explain and ground the importance of local history research as a part of the national identity formation system. The methodology of the study is based on system and culturological approaches as well as analytic, synthetic and historical methods. All these made it possible to reach the valid results of the study. Scientific novelty of the article lies in justification of the importance of local history research and dissemination of its results. Conclusions. As the national history comprises a mosaic of local histories, the study of regional and community features gives the opportunity to recreate the objective picture of the past, popularise regional uniqueness and to form the comprehensive historical narrative of the nation. Local history research makes people realise the participation in the common historical process and forms of local identity. Therefore, the popularisation of the results of research allows us to keep the knowledge, make it accessible for the wide audience and strengthen the ties between generations. The understanding of local history specialities awakens the feeling of pride in people’s minds that facilitates patriotic education and forms the wish to contribute to the development of the country. Patriotic feelings and formed local identities are the base of national identity.