History helps us understand ourselves

Our cultural and ancestral history is a significant part of what makes us what and who we are. Cultural influences help shape our identities and give us a sense of belonging. Ancestral influences give us a legacy we can be proud of.^[1] By learning about the history of our culture, it helps to create a sense of cultural identity; a group in which we belong. Our culture influences everything from what we believe to the way we dress and the foods we eat. Learning about our ancestors gives us an insight into why we are the way we are, both in genetics and mentality. Genetics and family medical history shape our personal health and can help predict what medical conditions we may face during our lives. What our ancestors believed and how they fit into society often reflects our own beliefs and place in society.