History as a discipline is the study of Man's chronological account and record of events in relation to the environment. The study of which articulates, develops and encourages critical analysis of the social, political and economic aspects of man.

​The word "History" is derived from a Greek word 'Historia' which means to ask, enquire or search for the truth and report the findings.

 There are many definitions put forward on the meaning of history. However, it is generally argued that history is man's attempt to answer the questions: What event? Who was involved? When, and why it took place as well as what effects the event had or has on the people involved. ​

History is also a record, account, and analysis of human activities and relationships on earth in a given time. It is an important discipline that records, preserves and integrates both the physical and social developments as they affect man.

​The word government comes from the word 'govern' which means to control through regulations and a set of rules. Government means the way of ruling, administering and controlling a people. It deals with the exercising of authority and the directing of people's lives as spelt Out in their society. Generally then, government is seen as the political organisation, structure and authority. 

It affects every aspect of man's life as a social being who is subject to some form of authority, starting from the home to schools and to all Other organisations. The regulations and rules set in any social unit or organisation and the way they are implemented is an important aspect in government.
 
In many cases, there are individuals Or officers, assigned the-duty Of ensuring that all the rules, laws, atoms, traditions and regulations are observed. These individuals have the power to punish those who break rules. Government is, therefore', a form Of organized control in a defined geographical area, e.g., a country. The control is exercised by a small body Of people. It is this body that enforces laws for and on behalf of a larger section Of the population or subjects. The government is therefore the small body of persons within a country who make and enforce laws. 

In conclusion, government deals with people's attempt at organized life, while History is the study Of people's political, social and economic activities in relation to their environment. Government is therefore, part of history. It is people's attempt to govern themselves, their political activities in relation to the rest of society. History and Government is therefore the study Of people and society. 

​Pre-history is the study of history of man in the distant past that relies on scientific laboratory examinations of excavated materials and fossils.

History is divided into three branches. These are:

1. Political History. 
2. Social History. 
3. Economic History.

 
Political History 
This is the study of a people's way of ruling, people's leaders and the system of administration. It involves controlling, guiding, directing and managing people's activities and actions. 

Social History 
This is the study of people's beliefs, dressing, taboos, literature and religion. It involves the understanding of the cultural practices and 
ways of life of a people. 

Economic History 
This is the study of how people make their daily living. It is the study of the occupations of a people. It involves such activities as hunting and gathering, agriculture, industry, trade, transportation and communication. 

Importance of Studying History 

• By studying history we learn about the cultural, economic and political organisations of different people of the world. 
• We appreciate the values of other people and their contribution to civilization. We also develop respect for other people's culture. To some extent history becomes a vital element in education for world inter-dependence. 
• History enables people to appreciate and understand their past way of life. The past, a tested experience, gives us a glimpse of what might happen in the future. It may also help us find solutions to present problems. In this way, an understanding and respect for the past is developed. The obligation to love and preserve the past becomes the responsibility of everybody. 
• History trains us to develop the capacity for critical analysis of historical data. It also encourages us to check our information from various sources until we select what is most convincing. By studying history, we develop the ability to question, acquire and argue rationally. The past fascinates young people and helps the learner to understand the human race better. 
• By studying history, a sense of patriotism and national pride is developed. It makes one acquire appropriate attitudes and values which will make the learner a useful member of society. The learner becomes a responsible citizen who is loyal to his country. 
• History also fosters empathy—the ability to understand how people think and feel and their positions and roles in society. It helps in the appreciation of human achievements and aspirations. 
• History is also a way of preparing the community or society for life This is characterised by its narration of memorable events, designed to explain the current state of society, rationalize what was practiced by society, politically or militarily and propagate society's knowledge of glorious deeds. 
• History also provides intellectual fulfilment and an interest in further learning. The study of history is both pleasurable and interesting. The learner should develop the habit of-reading history out of interest and pleasure. This enriches the mind and makes the learner a well-rounded and educated person. Any civilized person should be interested in education not only for profit in a good job or money, but also for pleasure. 
• History is also an integral study that accounts and records social and physical happenings in time and space for the confirmation of man. 
• The study of history can also lead the learner to respected professions such as law, business management, teaching, administration and many others. 

Importance of Studying Government 

• It enables us to understand how laws are made and implemented. 
• It helps us to understand the structures of government and reasons why we need a government. 
• Helps us to understand our rights and responsibilities as citizens. 
• Helps us to understand duties of our leaders in government. 
• It enables us to compare our government and other governments of the world.

• ​Can only be used in areas with electricity. 
• They are expensive to obtain and use. 
• They require experts. 

​Throughout the ages, individuals, communities and peoples have tried to explain how they came into existence. This explanation is given through the oral traditions, for example, in myths and legends. The Agikuyu believe that Ngai (God) appeared and created their ancestors, Gikuyu and Mumbi at Mukurwe wa Gathanga. The Maasai believe that their ancestors were dropped by Enkai (God) from the sky. 

• Walked on four limbs. 
• Had a tail. 
• Weighed four kilograms.