Historical revisionism is the process of reinterpreting the past based on new evidence or perspectives. It often involves challenging established narratives about events, figures, or movements, such as the causes of World War II or the impact of colonialism. This practice can lead to a deeper understanding of history, as it encourages critical thinking and the examination of different viewpoints. However, historical revisionism can also be controversial. Some revisions may be motivated by political agendas or ideological beliefs, leading to distortions of facts. For instance, attempts to downplay the atrocities of the Holocaust or to glorify certain leaders can mislead public understanding and memory of significant events.