Cause and effect describe how one event leads to another. This idea is used in history to explain connections between events. A cause is something that happens first, and an effect is what follows.

For example, a major war can lead to new borders or governments. Events such as inventions or discoveries can also lead to changes in daily life. Historians study documents and evidence to understand these links.

Cause and effect are shown in timelines, records, and written accounts. They help explain how events are connected over time.