The historian should be fearless and incorruptible; a man of independence, loving frankness and truth; one who, as the poet says, calls a fig a fig and a spade a spade. He should yield to neither hatred nor affection, but should be unsparing and unpitying. He should be neither shy nor deprecating, but an impartial judge, giving each side all it deserves but no more. He should know in his writings no country and no city; he should bow to no authority and acknowledge no king. He should never consider what this or that man will think, but should state the facts as they really occurred.

Summary

This quote emphasizes the qualities an historian should possess. It highlights the importance of being unbiased, honest, and independent, free from any external influences or agendas. The historian must have the courage to speak the truth without fear or favoritism, using plain and precise language. They should not be swayed by personal feelings of love or hate, but rather focus on presenting a fair and balanced account of events. Additionally, the historian should have a global perspective, disregarding political or cultural allegiances, and remaining unaffected by authority or public opinion. Their duty is to faithfully document the facts as they unfold, disregarding any potential repercussions.