This topic explores the importance of placing ancestors within their historical, social, and political environment. Events and customs shaped their lives. If we understand where they fit in and the circumstances that impacted their lives, we understand a little more about who they were, where they lived, what they did, and how they interacted with colleagues, peers, and relations. Some genealogy software programs have basic timeline potential. Spreadsheets, text documents, and maps can also add to a better understanding of a person's place in history. All these possibilities will be reviewed and applied.