Definitions and Features
· A time line is a diagram that shows when events took place.
· Dates are written on a time line to show the period of time between events.
· Time lines are read from left to right.
· Earlier events are to the left, and later events are to the right.
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Why should I learn how to read a time line?
To understand history, we need to know when things happened. We also need to know in which order they happened. We can read history books and other books for this information. But, sometimes it can be confusing to understand what happened first and next!
Reading a time line can clear that confusion. A time line not only shows when events took place, but it also shows the amount of time that passes between events. In this way, a time line helps to give a sense of sequence, or order, to history.
Let's read a time line!
Now, take a closer look at the time line below. Notice that the name of each event appears below or above the date it happened.
Practice Use the time line to answer the questions.
- Which event took place in 1825?
- Was the National Road built before or after Ford's Model T? How do you know?
- How much time passed between the year Model T was developed and the year in which Ford sold fifteen million cars?
- Did the steam engine come before or after the steamboat?
- An elevator with a safety clamp was invented in 1852, which led to the first passenger elevator to be built. In which part of the time line would that event appear?
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