Introduction: History and Data Science: Data-driven Inquiries into the Past

The integration of data science methods into historical research is an emerging joint focus of digital humanities and history. This new research area applies data science methods to study large historical datasets, such as correspondences, chronicles, oral history interviews, photos, and maps. As part of the overarching goal to further our knowledge of the past, the application of data science methods in historical research involves an array of epistemological questions as well. For instance, what can count as evidence and knowledge in the context of data driven inquiries into the past?