Here are some specific examples of why history is important:
* It helps us to understand the present. The present is built on the past. In order to understand why things are the way they are today, we need to understand how they came to be. For example, the United States is a democracy today because of the American Revolution.
* It helps us to avoid repeating the mistakes of the past. History can teach us about the mistakes that previous generations have made. We can learn from these mistakes and avoid making them ourselves. For example, the Holocaust can teach us about the dangers of racism and intolerance.
* It helps us to understand different cultures and perspectives. History can help us to understand how other cultures have developed over time. This can help us to be more tolerant of different customs and beliefs. For example, learning about the history of China can help us to understand why Chinese culture is so different from American culture.
Overall, history is a valuable subject that can teach us a great deal about ourselves and the world around us. It is not a waste of time.