Why is it important to learn about history?

Studying history is important in that it allows us to connect the present to the past. Furthermore, it permits us to develop records, chronicle events, examine patterns on how societies operated, improve powers of recall, preserve memories, develop critical thinking and research and writing skills.
History also influences one into appreciating and understanding past civilizations, the rise and fall of nations, the growth of institutions, the origin and spread of movements over time.
In the course of studying history, one can become a specialist in countries, geographic regions, particular periods in history, such as the ancient period, medieval era, modern era or contemporary era among others.
Studying history can prepare one for careers in law, the media, politics, writing, research and analysis as well as library science.
As a social science, history is all encompassing in that it is a science which encompasses all aspects of human and societal behavior and interaction.

The common expression, "We must learn history so that we do not repeat it" expresses, perhaps, the most important reason to study history. In American history, for example, it is helpful to study thoroughly the ways in which indigenous and black people were exploited and dehumanized to avoid committing similar crimes against humanity in the future. It is helpful to look at errors in diplomacy, such as Neville Chamberlain's fateful compromise to cede former Czechoslovakia to Hitler, to understand why one should not make concessions to tyrants.
Another expression is also helpful in understanding why it is important to learn history: "In order to know where we are going, it is important to know where we came from." To understand a nation—including everything from how its government functions, to its diversity, to its inequities among citizens—it is key to learn the nation's history.